I'm participating in my very first century in 3 weeks (El Tour de Tucson) and I think I'm going to be fairly prepared. I've read tons of threads around here and I think I have a hang of the pacing and nutritional aspects of the century, so finishing isn't a major concern of mine (I did 60 miles the other day and felt like I could have done it again).

The problem? I've never ridden in a group before, and since the road cycling season is calling it quits today (I'm watching an inch of snow fall as I type), I fear I'll never be able to before the century (even if it does let up, the reason why I always ride alone is because my schedule isn't the most flexible). El Tour de Tucson is notorious for being humongous, so riding solo is almost impossible. Now, I've read all about riding in groups and the problems n00bs have and the "unwritten rules", but will the fact that I've never actually experienced it affect my ride? Exactly how many people am I going to unknowingly piss off? Any advice, criticism, "wow, you're dumb" is appreciated.