Thought I'd post here since I've thought on this subject recently, having decided I prefer riding alone 'most of the time'. This is not 'anti social', but 1)pacelines wear me out and put pressure on me when I prefer to go at my own speeds as my body moves me, and 2)for longer rides, I need to pace myself so I can finish without undo suffering. Groups force me to ride at someone elses pace.

Pacelines are much better workouts however.

Dropping or being dropped is always sort of socially awkward [if not in a race; I'm not a racer], so what I do is pull up with someone and ride a few miles, perhaps having a conversation, and then 'excuse' myself in some way to ride off on my own [either to drop or speed up]. Even still, breaking off can be awkward as well. It is funny how in a few short moments, cyclists can seem to get to know one another well while riding. Later on, at rest stops or off the bike or another day, the same converstations are often stunted and again, can be awkward. I prefer riding in 'groups' while staying to myself and riding alone. Does that make sense? And again, it is NOT anti-social...but just pragmatic and functional to enjoying the ride.