Originally Posted by Equinox
I definitely made some mistakes when I first started riding with the group and I think I inadvertently pissed off some members. No crashes or anything even close. But instead of using these transgressions as an opportunity to educate a new rider, I felt I got mostly the cold shoulder. For example, I passed a fellow rider (safely) without calling, "on your left." He expressed his objection and I apologized. But on subsequent occasions, he and many other members of the group have passed me (safely) with no warning. I felt, what the hell. Why do these rules apply only to me?
Many 'performance' oriented groups are little more than 'novices' themselves, who are able push a gear. And with that comes the need to always 'prove' yourself, especially to those new to the 'pack'. Like dogs, they need to form an order and always wannabe the 'alpha' dog, or associate with him - part of that is 'attitude' displayed to others.
Forget all the yelling and shouting. My judgement on a group (or individual) of riders comes easily when I see how well they can communicate without the unnecessary and often misunderstood vocalization. Signaling is both unintrusive and fully communicative, and better at both.
Leave the "On your LEft" for the mixed use path where you find joggers, skaters, mothers with kids, and walkers with their pets.
For example, the right approach for your passing scenario. Rarely is anything necessary, just make the pass with some feel for a situation that might require the front rider to change their line. Rider you are passing... what Universe are they in? They're in a group ride and don;t expect to get passed, ever? Time for him/her to get real. Does he need an "On your Left" - NOT. Is it even a courtesy? Not Hardly.
An experienced rider who wants to alert me of his intent to pass close and feels me being more aware benefits him, WILL place a quick hand on my hip as he moves alongside (on the passing side of course). I know he's pulling by close, I hold my line, he gets it done, all with hardly any lost attention from either rider.
Just cause this group are able to afford shiny new CF and buff togs doesn't go anywhere in qualifying them as 'riders' of quality.
Originally Posted by Equinox
I've gotten better with experience, but I kno w I have a ways to go. But some members are slow to forget. I certainly did not want to offend anyone. I was just new to this. I would have welcomed constructive criticism
Certainly if they are tainted with 'bikie attitude', there will be a group that is the direct opposite of them.
Find a group that has an active contingent of more experienced and/or older riders. 1st, they will offer what makes a club experience a complete thing - seasoning and experience. 2nd, They themselves will not put themselves into 'iffy; and 'risky' situations by associating with bogus 'bikies'.
Good clubs will pay special attention to their new riders and novice riders in general. Often the expereinced riders will be the first to ride by and start the acquainting with a quick general comment or question. In a good group you'll feel less selfconscious and thereby become more aware of the things of nuance that are done that make the ride safer, more fun and more productive for all the riders.
My comments are, of course, related to general riding/racing clubs; as opposed to teams and club teams which will have clear objectives and methods to their structure for riding/training and competing.