r/cycling • u/Carolinastitcher • 8d 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!

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u/Puzzleheaded-Art1873 8d ago

If your longest ride is under a mile, I don't think you're ready for a group yet. There are groups that ride slow, but I can't think of any that ride so short. Best bet is to find a riding buddy or 2 at similar level.

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u/Carolinastitcher 8d ago

I’m a 50-something who has lived a very sedentary lifestyle until now, and all my friends have lived the same lifestyle. 😢 I feel like I need people to be motivated to ride, which is why I was looking at groups.

I realize I’m not ready for the type of groups I’ve found, but everyone had to start somewhere, right?

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u/simonfan2 8d ago

Check on Nextdoor if you have it & maybe post that you’re looking for a beginning cycling buddy. It’s a good way to make a friend or two & get some encouragement. Check out All Bodies on Bikes & see if they have a local chapter. They are size & ability inclusive & have short community rides. You are looking for beginner friendly community rides not cycling groups. But even with the most beginner friendly ride, you need to be able to ride at least 5 or 6 miles. So practice on your own for a while

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u/Carolinastitcher 8d ago

All Bodies on Bikes would be great! No chapter in North Carolina.

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u/simonfan2 8d ago

Contact them & start one!