Oh, I have another question to add to this topic:

Do any of you find that you do better when riding with another person? I am terrified of dogs! I find myself riding the same route all the time because of that fear. But, when I am with someone else, I seem to get a little braver and go a different route.

Maybe that is my problem.........boredom! Maybe I am coming in early because I am tired of the route I am riding........... could be!

But, I know I am not ready to ride in a group setting. The girl I ride with mostly has been riding for 5 years and slows down a little for me. She is teaching me how to shift and when, how to climb and how to ride in a group or pace line. I just need more practice before joining in on a group ride!

Kim in TN