There are many types of group rides, and it is impossible to make such a blanket statement. As a starting point, when I go for a ride with my wife and another couple, is that a group ride? How about when I regularly meet a few of my friends? We have been riding together for over a decade. Does that count? Then there is our local seniors center, which hosts two weekly rides, regularly hosting over 30 participants, ranging from the Lycra speedsters to e-bike cruisers. We usually split up into different factions, regrouping for a coffee and snack (sometimes hosted by a participant). Then we get the club rides, which are also as diverse as imagined, having participated and led those for decades.



If I had denied myself those social experiences, I would have missed an incredibly valuable contribution to my life. It’s not like I am not comfortable with my own company, and having just completed a two-month solo cycle tour through Europe is a testament to this. I could not imagine not sharing cycling with others.