There are no advantages to not being in the group. If you are a lone biker, you quickly get passed without so much of an "On your left!". If you're in a car, good luck trying to pass them. They refuse to utilize the rather large bike path and bike line but instead spread out into the car lanes, daring you to even get close. They're always talking loudly about their work days or complaining about how they haven't gotten to ride in two days.
I should be careful though, I am friends with some rather avid bikers. Including one who happens to live with me. I'm not referring to you guys, but the "Fast Girls and Slow Guys" "Joy Riders" "Mercy Cycling" and all the other gangs of 50+ bicycling groups.
Last September, I bought my first bike where I would not be expected to share it with siblings. It's not a fancy-pants road bike but a very nice hybrid that is perfect for commuting. This past week I have decided to start biking to work. Even though we live about 2.5 miles away from work, there is an enormous MOUNTAIN to climb and then promptly go back down. That means that yes, it is uphill both ways!
Please feel free to count the contour lines on the provided elevation and topo map, courtesy of Google Pedometer, depicting the hill I have to climb.
I have to admit, I walk my bike the remaining 50 meters on the steepest part but I do have a valid excuse- I don't want to be dripping in sweat when I come walking into the building. And my pounding heart and shortness of breath might add to it as well. On the way home, I do make it without having to walk my bike but I can assure you there is some mild cursing going on as the construction guys and landscapers seem to be taking bets as to if I'll make it with tipping over.
It's well worth the bike ride though because it actually takes less time to bike than to drive. We have to park more than half a mile away from work so biking can cut out 5-10 minutes.
You just have to be willing to battle the burning thighs and salty eyes of an uphill bike ride.
