MissLiz:

That makes sense that there wouldn't be a beginning bike club but the local clubs here have a nice rating system with examples of how they rate rides and believe me these cyclists are way above level. First, there is the cadence which I would never be able to keep up with. But most importantly is how they rate the rides. The rides they consider easy are rides I still have difficulty with and consider very challenging. I do hope to be able to get to the point where I can eventually join them though. Not being courageous, I am trying to work up enough nerve to follow your advice and join a ride and do the best I can until I get dropped. Were you embarassed when you first started and got dropped? There aren't any local all women rides but so far the answers I've had to my fliers have all been from women so perhaps soon. I'm dying of curiosity. what is a WOMBAT Tea Party? Thanks for the info on touring clubs.