I have ridden with clubs, with groups of friends and alone... I prefer alone because it gives me the freedom to go at my pace, go where I want and enjoy the scenery or landscape. But I don't discount meeting friends and scheduling a ride 'cause I know that means I will get out. Just recently I took a mountain bike clinic. I met a gentleman there and he and I have now been scheduling rides together. He's a "newbie" but strong and I am enjoying showing him some of my favorite trails that I now take for granted.

One way to stay motivated is vary your route even if that means just going backwards. Or one day try and do hills, the next day flat. Or give yourself a designation like a favorite coffee shop, or bike shop or computer store... whatever you like.

If you want to try group riding see if there is a local club in your area. Or try and talk friends into riding. It may be slow at first but think of it as company as apposed to training. Alot of bike shops organized rides, at least they do in my area.

I'ml ike you - I prefer a small group of friends (which I am fortunate to have - all my firends ride) over a club. I belonged to a large roadie club for 12 years and finally got tired of all the silliness and crazy riding (running through lights, taken over the whole streets, pissing off car drivers etc). My best buddy who rides the most with me I met in the road club. We both got tired of that. My other good friend I met through mountain biking and leading groups. I've also met friends start stopping at a meeting place and striking up a conversation.