With mass start rides, since I'm not worried about pacing the field I try and stay toward the back at the start, and let things sort themselves out. Usually within the first couple of miles the group starts to get strung out and things aren't so flaky any more. Couple of Tips.

1. Let people know if you are coming up on them, A quick "on your left" is always appreciated.

2. Don't feel like you have to pass everybody the first mile, let things get strung out a bit.

3. Don't do anything 'twichy', no sudden lane changes or slow downs. By the same token, be prepared for some pretty bizarre bike handling going on around you at the start.

4. If it looks like a knot or cluster is forming up ahead, maybe at a turn, don't feel like you have to run up at full speed, just soft pedal a bit so that you can figure out what's going on.

5. Have fun. It's great having lots of people to ride with and chat with.

Steve W.