the effort to ride-how do you find a recreational group to ride with?

[shootingstar]

I've only gone out on group rides 2-3 times...annually. I am such a lazy **** in terms getting myself motivated to meet up at specific times and place. All the cities I've lived in , all have large cycling clubs with range of different rides. That's why in the past I've gotten involved in volunteering for cycling advocacy events and rides..to meet other like-minded cyclists and be able to talk decently without feeling as if I have to also concentrate on cycling and not bump into someone else/something. I don't put myself in the cycling-team kit group even though I wear lycra. Nor am I cycling chic with high heels and no helmet.

I find myself wanting either to just cycle and stop when I want or wanting to socialize in a meaningful way, without being overly distant. Cycling has simultaneously made me more social with other cyclists who like sharing info. and with whom I otherwise would not connect with some of the same people under other circumstances. But also at the same time, it makes me realize why I like cycling...I can make a choice to do it on my own. It does appeal to my introvertedness.

There's probably a big difference in solo cycling in urban areas vs. those who cycle often in the country several times per wk. In urban areas I never feel "alone" and if one gets "lost", eventually there are services, people to ask or for sustenance. This struck me when I got lost temporarily when snowshoeing in the mountains several years ago. I panicked in a way, I have never panicked when cycling on my own.

I've met several TE members over the years, and have enjoyed a bike ride with them. So if you ever head out to the Canadian Rockies in Alberta....