Hi bikerHen -

Welcome to the fold ! I can't add much more to the great advice that's already been given.

singletrackmind brought up a really good point, most clubs don't require you to be a member to join in on their rides.

If you like to surf the web, maybe you can find a local club with a website that lists their ride schedule. Some clubs have weekly or monthly "getting to know you" social rides designed especially for new (or potential) members. Some clubs try to offer a variety of rides with different lengths, avg speeds, amt of climbing, and often have some sort of rating system to let you know how long/fast/strenous the ride might be - your best bet is to find some of their lowest difficulty rides first, those tend to be the most social and you wouldn't have to worry about trying to keep up with the group the first time out.

Also, some clubs offer progressive training rides (weekly rides with increasing length &/or difficulty) geared for a specific future event, or offer classes or worshops on bike riding skills or bike repairs. Joining things like that is a great way to meet other like-minded cyclists.

Anyhoo, welcome!

- Jo "sometimes a mother hen" bob