Group Rides?

[Jeephoto_imp]

I went on a group ride yesterday. Of course I was the only CB1100 amongst V Stroms, KLR's, and sport-tourers. After a great Barbeque lunch, we set out riding country and farm roads south of the Dallas-Ft Worth Metroplex with 12 bikes. I was really looking forward to doing some exploring with these guys.

I did not enjoy riding with this group and dropped out a few miles into the ride. It seemed that riding fast and speeding was the main focus, where I wanted to cruise at a slower pace and see the sights. It was all I could do to watch the road ahead for hazards, be careful of dirt/sand in the curves, and see the riders in front of me get further ahead. The scenery to each side of me was a blur.

I know my CB will perform way beyond my riding skills, but frankly, I bought this bike to slowly and leisurely cruise and explore and experience the world. Wherever I want to go.

[redbirds_imp]

We don't do too many group rides for that very reason. A charity ride we entered a few years back became so obviously dangerous we dropped out half way through.

We do ride with a local group on occasion because we know the folks and have never observed any careless actions from group members. The rides we did at the forum rally were run at a comfortably brisk, safe pace and were great fun with plenty rest stops to relax and take in the fine scenery.

[kmoney_imp]

This is pretty common, and I've dropped out of rides on numerous occasions. I've pretty much given up on riding with groups that aren't safe and organized by experienced riders (i.e. , a good leader and a sweeper who know what they are doing).

The worst is when people feel preassure to try and keep up instead of just going their own pace. Over the the years, I've seen lots of new riders (mostly on sportbikes) fall into this trap, with some having pretty sad results.

[Inhouse Bob]

+1 to all that. I've been fortunate to hook up with a couple of easy-going groups and have really enjoyed those rides. You just have to shop around. And I have found that smaller is often better.

[Motogeezer1949_imp]

Just have to find a compatible group that's all. Our crew does rapid rides, cruises, two ups, touring, destination rides - whatever we're feeling at the time. The type of ride we're having is always posted along with the ride invite so people can decide for themselves. Rapid are usually all those who love the twisties - ex-racers and those interested in skill development, two-up obviously attracts a different crowd.
Believe me, there are compatible riders out there whatever your style. Just gotta find them

[Nemo_imp]

I have never been in a large group ride. Looking forward to make the 2016 CB Rally my first. Most I've done has been with two other bikes.

Getting enough humans together for a common activity, before long the differences will make themselves noted. It's a rule of nature; Darwin posted it on Facebook.

[the Ferret]

I have never been in a large group ride. Looking forward to make the 2016 CB Rally my first. Most I've done has been with two other bikes.

Getting enough humans together for a common activity, before long the differences will make themselves noted. It's a rule of nature; Darwin posted it on Facebook.

probably would have if it had been around

[MikeOxbig_imp]

Don't do group rides.
Solitary person, at most I ride with one friend. Prefer the freedom.
Just my choice.

That's exactly how I am. 95% of the time I go out on my own.