Originally Posted by njkayaker

Some people like riding in groups and some people don't.

One advantage (sometimes) of group riding is that they can push you in ways that are hard to do alone. Also, there are different tactics needed for keeping up with a group, which are hard to learn alone.

If you can deal with being dropped, then you don't have that fear.


The truth is that only you doing the ride will determine whether or not you will be dropped. Random strangers on the internet will have no idea.


Well, life is full of risks. As far as risks go, this is a really minor one. If you really need random internet strangers to answer this question for you, whether or not you will be dropped isn't your real problem. Try it.



It's very likely that the group won't want you to be pacelining in your first group ride.

Group riding takes a bit of practice and getting used to. In addition to the stuff that you have to notice while riding alone, you have to notice the other riders around you. That takes some experience. Don't get to close to people at first.

You certainly want to ride in a smooth predictable manner. Try to avoid going around things at the last minute (ie, don't weave!). Try to ride in as straight a path as possible. And be certain not to cut corners when making turns.


Keep in mind that you (probably) took some time to get those skills. Group riding skills are also different.