Group Riding

Although most bicycles are equipped to carry a single rider, cycling is unquestionably a social sport.

Of course, many Boston riders primarily hop on their bikes to commute from one place to another as part of their daily routine. But many cyclists who engage in the activity as a means of exercise and recreation find there are many benefits to group rides.

Our Boston bicycle accident lawyers at Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers and BikeAttorney.com know that while riding or training alone can give a rider motivation, focus and independence, joining a cycling group for regular rides has many upsides as well.

Some Boston cycling group rides are very casual – just a pack of friends, acquaintances or online meetups, getting together on the occasional Saturday or whenever they can fit in an extra ride. Other groups adhere to rigid schedules and demand a certain degree of skill and performance from participants – something to challenge those involved.

There are dozens of cycling clubs throughout Massachusetts and in the Boston region in particular. Each group may have varying purposes and be intended for different skill levels. Finding the one right for you might take a little time and research, but finding the right fit will make it with it.

Benefits of a Group Ride

Riding in a group has many benefits for both novice and skilled riders.

For all cycling enthusiasts, four of the greatest benefits are:

  • Safety. Riding in a group means you are more visible to motorists, which means you will be less likely to be struck by a vehicle. In the unfortunate event you are still struck, you will have plenty of reliable witnesses.
  • Better handling. Riding with others teaches you many skills on a bicycle that you simply can’t learn on your own. You will be forced to learn how to handle your bike more predictably and how to safely turn a corner. This skill is imperative when you are riding with others are mere inches from you. Also learning to safely keep a pace line, accelerate and descend are all valuable in learning to navigate traffic.
  • Social interaction. Part of the reason people get into cycling in the first place is to meet people. But even if that isn’t your sole goal, it can be an added bonus. It’s an excellent way to meet new people as well as get advice and learn more about the sport.

For those who are more advanced in their cycling skills and looking for more of a challenge or to train for a race, cycling in a group can help in a number of ways, in addition to those listed above. Those include:

  • Race simulation. When you ride with other cyclists with similar skill sets or goals (or perhaps even those who are slightly more advanced than you), you can work to challenge each other in an environment that is similar to racing. Groups can establish an official “finish line,” gain practice on handling the bike under pressure and provide each other with feedback on how to improve.
  • Proper pacing. Good cycling groups can help to push and encourage motivation to reach key goals. They can also help to hold them back so that they don’t over-train.
Boston Bicycling Club

One of the great things about living and riding in Boston is our thriving bicycling community. There are numerous groups of varying skill levels and goals.

Whether you’re looking for new adventures or a serious challenge or just a few friends to ride with, check out the following resources.

Road-biking clubs

Mountain Biking Clubs

If you have questions about your rights as a cyclist or what to do following a bicycle accident, call us today to learn more.

Contact the Boston Bicycle Accident Lawyers at Jeffrey Glassman Injury Lawyers and BikeAttorney.com at 617-777-7777.