Joining a fixie riding group is one of the best parts of the fixie scene. Fixed gear riders are really friendly and passionate about their bikes. But how can you find a group to ride your bike with?
In this article, you will learn why cyclists ride in groups, some tips on how to find the right group to ride with, and how you can start a group ride.
Searching online is one of the simplest ways to find a fixie group. There are numerous networks and forums where riders can share their experiences and connect with others. Additionally, ask around your neighborhood or office. Someone probably knows of a fixie group you could join!
Why do cyclists ride in groups?
The primary reason bikers ride together is for the sense of community. The second reason is safety. A group of cyclists is easier to spot for drivers, reducing the likelihood of being hit from behind.
State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061
State Bicycle Co. Black Label 6061
Should you join a cycling club?
Itโll Benefit You More Than Just Your Fitness! Cycling is one of the most social activities you can engage in. In addition, being a club member allows you to meet other people who share your interests.
How do you find a local cycling group?
Here are some tips to follow when finding a fixie group to ride with.
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Check out your local bike shop
Your local bike shop should be your first point of inquiry when looking for a cycling squad. Typically, stores will be aware of local groups and clubs or will arrange group rides from various locations. Make sure to tell the shop about your ability level and to be as honest as possible so the personnel can connect you with the correct people.
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Get social
Check out Instagram and discover who else is riding in the places you already ride. Look for Facebook pages or groups in your region as wellโmost towns have at least one or two specialized cycling pages where you can make arrangements or join group rides.
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Always show up
You wonโt meet new people or acquaintances if you donโt attend rides. Of course, everyone is nervous and might feel scared at first, but donโt let that stop you from going!
And donโt give up because of one terrible group ride. Group rides may be challenging; sometimes, the group dynamic doesnโt fit that night, or thereโs a leader who is just a hammerhead one night. Return and see if your next experience is better.
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Donโt force it
If a ride isnโt working out for you or youโre not having fun, try a different group or ride. Itโs also okay if your buddy quits out of the group ride. With that said, a good cycling buddy should not feel forced. If you have to hunt someone down, they wonโt be a good riding buddy for long.
What is a no-drop ride in cycling?
No-drop ride means the group pauses for mechanical issues, flat tires, nature breaks, accidents, and emergencies. Members of the group will ride with slower riders. This makes n-drop groups excellent for beginners.
In group rides, where should the least experienced riders be?
The leader should obviously know the route youโre taking. The least experienced rider in the group goes next, in the No. 2 position behind and to the leaderโs right. The last position also called the โsweep,โ should be another highly experienced rider.
How to start your own group ride?
If you want to start your own riding group, here are a few tips:
- Be consistent.
- Start with friends and let the ride grow naturally.
- Enforce safety and etiquette. Have a post-ride routine.
- Encourage people to come with witty emails or clever invites.
- Post about your ride on social media.
If you want even more tips, watch this video called โFixed Gear Group Rides are Dope!โ from the Zach Gallardo YouTube Channel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do you still have questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about finding a fixie group to ride with.
Do you ride faster in cycling groups?
You will progress faster if you cycle in a group with whom you are on equal footing. You can also practice riding in a paceline, following the wheel, riding close to other people, turning as a group, and other important skills.
Is it safer to cycle in a group?
It all depends. Group riding can be riskier at times, but it can also be safer. It is challenging for other drivers to miss a large group of cyclists riding together. In contrast, careless drivers may be more likely to miss you on the road if you cycle alone.
How much easier is it to cycle in a group?
Itโs amazing how much easier it is to ride fast in a large group. If you know how to ride smoothly and safely in a group, you may save roughly 30% behind one rider and possibly 35% behind two or more. So a solo effort at 20 mph would be roughly equivalent to drafting at 24โ26 mph.
Why are group rides faster?
You might need to speed up to keep up with the cyclists at the front. And unstructured training and group riding resemble the real world of cycling, pushing cyclists to mix up and vary their efforts.
Conclusion
Whether you just bought your first fixie or want to join a group of people who share the same passion, our tips above should help you find the right fit. Plus, if you arenโt satisfied with the ones we mentioned, there are plenty more groups available that may be a better fit for you. The best part is that most of them already have rides planned and are ready to roll! So just head over to their group page and say hello.
This article covered why cyclists ride in groups, how to find the right group to ride with, and how you can start a group ride. Here are some key takeaways:
Key takeaways
- The primary reasons bikers ride together are community and safety.
- Cycling is one of the most social activities you can engage in.
- A no-drop ride means the group pauses for mechanical issues, flat tires, nature breaks, accidents, and emergencies.
- A bike with fixed gear responds quicker than a road bike to speed changes.
- A change of handlebars can be a better-value upgrade than a new bike or a set of fancy road bike wheels.
- Fixies have no freewheel.
So, did we cover everything you wanted to know? Let us know in the comments section below (we read and reply to every comment). If you found this article helpful, check out our full blog for more tips and tricks on riding a fixed-gear bike. Thanks for reading, and stay fixed!
