Well, I'm from the outskirts of San Diego, 51 years old and only been biking for about 5 or 6 years. I started on a cheap mountain bike, then to a crossbike of sorts and finally to a touring frame with mountain bike components. I only ride on the road but love it. The only other person I ride with is my husband and then Sunday by myself. We have a lot of really nice areas in San Diego to ride, from the mountains to the ocean (if you don't mind the traffic). I have tried riding with other people but I guess I am just to slow, averaging 11 mph. If anyone gets out this way I'm sure you will love the fact that you can bike all year round, even in the rain (it's usually always warm). This looks like an interesting forum and I will be checking in often.