Yup, chalk up another newbie with only experience is riding with the guys.

You will get used to the high cadence thing and later will notice a difference, I used to do the same. Low Cadence to keep up, but I am not going to sacrafice myself (knees) for them because I will be the one dealing with the consequences. I am looking forward to moving back to the States and joining a group of women. My DH doesn't seem to get it, but he has always had guys to ride with that are matching to his abilities yet give challenge to each other.
I have gotten to where I would rather ride alone then ride with my husband because he is always ahead and not riding with me, yet I don't want him to be held back on my account. Just easier to ride alone and pace or race my own records. I like to beat my records, higher cadence seems to be making for easier ride and beating my time for the same course.