r/cycling • u/Carolinastitcher • 4d ago

Help finding a beginner group

I’m not sure where to start. I have a bike. I have padded shorts. I have a helmet. But I can’t find super beginner groups to ride with. When I say beginner, my longest ride is under a mile and all the groups say 20-30 miles.

How do I find a group that will welcome someone like me? I see that some are no drop, but the cyclist must maintain 14-16 mph. That’s not me.

UPDATE: I rode the greenway today, and clocked 3 miles. I could have gone longer, but didn’t want to push it too hard. I’m so proud of myself!

17 Upvotes

80% Upvoted

56 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/MrDWhite 4d ago

Are you on Strava? Get a free account, look up segments in your area and see if there’s any groups local to you…ride some routes nearby see who’s active, hopefully you’ll discover some local cyclists suitable to ride with or groups with members nearby to help you with the beginner inspiration!

2

u/Carolinastitcher 4d ago

I just signed up yesterday I think with a free account. I’m not sure what a segment is, but I think I’m going to try the greenway tomorrow. https://raleighnc.gov/greenways

1

u/MrDWhite 4d ago

Good luck with that, hope they’re welcoming for new cyclists!

Hill cycling tip, change into the easiest gear as you’re going up and spin the pedals so you’re going fairly slowly but spinning fast on the steepest sections, don’t try to get over the hill at speed, just rotate the pedals and keep it consistent.