Originally Posted by johnny99
But also bring the tools and knowledge to fix common problems by yourself. Even if you get someone to stop to help, he may be less prepared/competent than you. Hopefully the ride leader will give you enough route information so you can get home on your own if you get dropped.
Yes! Definitely. I was able to fix the problem on my own and would not expect anyone to help me with a minor problem like a flat. I just didn't yell loud enough to let them know I was stopping to fix it. Poof!! They were gone. No cue sheet provided, no sweep on the ride. Not a major problem for me, but did end my 'group' ride that day.
On that note... ask the group leader for a cue sheet (if it's not a no-drop ride) or whether anyone will be sweeping the route (if it is a no-drop ride).