Originally Posted by carpediemracing

Getting a sense of comfort in a group is most important. You should also understand group dynamics.

I think driving habits reflect group riding ones. If you find yourself slamming on the brakes semi-regularly, you need to assess what you're doing wrong. Even in bumper to bumper rush hour traffic you shouldn't have a lot of heart stopping moments.

I've never seen a good driver ride poorly in a group.

If you're the preferred designated driver in your circle of friends, if you've never rear ended another car, then you're probably pretty good at reading group dynamics. I've crashed on the bike so it's not like I'm perfect.

If you're not good at reading group dynamics, I don't know what to suggest. Stock up on Tegaderm?

Regardless you should figure out a way to learn how to touch your front wheel to another bike's rear wheel (which includes falling over), bump to the sides, and standard handling exercises like track stands, bunny hops, etc.

The more confident you are on the bike the better you'll be (from a solo point of view).

The better you are in a group the better your chances of staying upright.