I did my second club ride of all time last Wednesday, first being over a year ago, and was a little apprehensive at first.
Remembering what happened last time I knew that the "B" riders were a little slower than I thought so I wanted to ride with the "A" guys.
When we started out I was at the back feeling everyone out. There were about 10 riders? maybe and I saw that what was happening was 5 guys pulling ahead with a little gap forming so I took off and bridged the gap.
This was also first ride with new wheels so I was checking them out as well as time went on. I noticed again that I was able to stay with these guys and started to go in rotation and take some pulls. It turned out that one other guy started to show he was the leader and I was able to stay with him.
We broke away and finished the ride together. The last 6-7 miles were into a head wind and the other guy was stronger than me no doubt and took the lead most the way, I tried to help a few times but my legs were toast and told him.
I really do not think the regular "A" riders were there because even the guy in the lead thought that as well.
It was cool though and I will more than likely go again even though I prefer solo. This ride really tested me and I know will make a stronger rider.
Side note on new wheels was that on little downgrades I saw that I had to coast when others were pedaling.I had to feather brakes to stay there. Not sure why that was but I noticed it. New wheels rolling better? maybe