Quote Originally Posted by rapid cycler View Post

I'm not sure I want to ride with a group regularly, but I recognize that riding in a pack helps to develop a skill set that's neccessary for charity rides and the like—and not having that skill set keeps me from joining cycling events of any sort. Besides, some company would be nice from time to time!
You don't need to ride in groups to be able to participate in event rides and have a lot of fun. No special skills are needed. You just need to be able to ride the distance for the route you selected when you registered. The rest of it is more about knowing how to eat and drink, make sure you stop at all of the water and SAG stops, and to have the right clothing and saddle for the weather conditions and distance.

Go on an event ride and pick one of the shorter routes, maybe in a range of 30-50 miles. You will see what I mean. And you will have so much fun you will look for another event ride. Plus you will be meet other cyclists at the water and food stops, and other cyclists are always fun to chat with. There are lots of solo cyclists on the events; it isn't just clubs or groups of friends.

And find your own riding buddies to meet up with for your longer rides. If you see someone on TE who is in your area, send the person a PM and ask them if they want to ride with you. If you average speed is within a mile of each other, then you will be compatible riding buddies.

Darcy