Ride alone or in group?

[timwilky]

Originally Posted by Dicky Ticker

My preference is the smaller group with everybody knowing the route,where to stop and ride at the pace you are comfortable at. When it is this type of situation I find it much more enjoyable because you are not constantly looking for people in your mirrors,playing catch-up and if anybody wants to have a blast they can as you know where the next stopping point is.
Its an individual choice but being of the older generation and preferring the quieter life
having seen the consequence of large ride outs and its social antics I give them a miss
in favour of the small group or solo.
Having expressed my opinion does not mean that others should not enjoy larger gathering as I have done in the past. They can be loads of fun,just not my cup of tea
BUT WHATEVER YOU DO AS LONG AS YOU ENJOY IT THAT IS WHAT MATTERS

+1

The bain of my life is large groups, they run at the speed of the slowest. and lack the environment where the road can be enjoyed

Small groups of like minded people who know the route and stopping points are great, they can push the pace, individual riding can inadvertently become a dawdle. Or can blast, but each is free to ride within their comfort envelope, or push their boundaries.

Interestingly, when I plan a route I do it by fuel/brew stops. and do not factor in fag breaks. So generally about 100 miles between stops. and everybody starts with a full tank so wee tend to all need the same fuel stop

We do tend to try to keep the man behind you in your mirror, by that keep the guy in front in sight. If you haven't seen the man behind for about 5 mins, stop, wait 5 mins and if he has not turned up then turn round and look. Naughty Chinese hi power radios with decent range are quite good for keeping people in touch and you can spread out. Don't trust mobiles as many of the areas I ride do not have adequate converage etc.