"This is an 19 mile No Drop ride, with a typical pace of 11-15mph. While this ride encourages new riders, you should be familiar with the basic operation of your bicycle and capable of riding 19 miles at an 11mph pace. Any questions, call 505-1212."
As for the particular evening, I would have asked one of the regular riders to ride sweep for the group, and turned back to the shop with the new rider.
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You could fall off a cliff and die.
You could get lost and die.
You could hit a tree and die.
OR YOU COULD STAY HOME AND FALL OFF THE COUCH AND DIE.