Originally Posted by AzTallRider

Group ride experience is valuable - it is also not race-pack riding and it is odd to see so many posts here implying it is. Group riding is generally paceline work, designed to balance the work effort. Race goals are different, and the pack takes a much different form. A group ride is typically single file or two-abreast. A race pack will often cover the entire width of the lane/road, with constant overlaps and closer quarters. This exists in some group rides, but certainly not most of them. Group rides help you get used to being close to other riders, and teach some protocol, but they area poor substitute for race experience.