Beginner Group Ride Question

[bcipam]

I agree with you guys - 13 - 15 mph is not slow especially for a new rider. Again in my newbie rides we have lots of folks who struggle to maintain over 5 mph for 15 miles. Even now depending on my mood and stamina - I have trouble with 13 for a period of time.

My advice is to give a look see first. Then try and ride.

Also I highly doubt a newbie group will be pacelining,. If they are, I wouldn't ride with them. New riders are usually such a bunch of squirrels!!!!

[Eden]

If this is helpful - this is how our local recreational club describes its rides.

Easy: Under 10 mph
Leisurely: 10-12 mph
Steady: 12-14 mph
Moderate: 14-16 mph
Brisk: 16-18 mph
Strenuous: 18-21 mph
Super Strenuous: 22+ mph

Refers to the range of speeds on level ground without breaks. Downhills may be faster, uphills slower

Note: for rides described as HILLY, consider choosing a pace one step down from your usual comfort level

[pikato]

Swung by the LBS--mainly to point out stuff I want for b-day to Kirk--and Tom was there. I asked all the questions (THANKS, btw) and basically what it is is there are 5 different leaders who take whomever shows up out. We all start together, then as riders start to wear out, the leaders start branching off. Tom said he has one lady who started last week & she went about 10mph. No offense to her, or anyone, but from my alone rides, I know I blow that out of the water. The only thing that slows me down is the wind, which pretty much blows non-stop in my coastal town.

So I feel much much better about it & plan on going tomorrow. Tom told me to show up about 15 minutes early(6:45 am )because that is when he reviews signals & basic riding etiquette.

[KnottedYet]

I'm an old rider (old enough to know better, but young enough to still try) and I tend to go 13-15 mph. Smell the Nootka roses! Smile at the people you see! Spread the joy!

Newbies are fun to ride with. They are so excited and eager! They have so many good questions and good ideas and such good enthusiasm! I love it!

[pikato]

LOL, I wrote about it here:

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=7376