I am getting on my soapbox because I think it’s time to say what I have been seeing at the Slow N Easy west ride.  When this ride formed back in 2009 it was designed to give new riders a safe place to participate in group rides.  It took a couple of years for that to occur.  At its height we usually had between 40-50 riders every week and four different routes.  Now we have three different routes and if we get 30 riders it’s a lot.  I know cycling in general isn’t as popular as in previous years.  However, that is not the only reason attendance is low.  I can only talk about what has been happening with my group.  We have lost most of the social aspect for the group.  It doesn’t matter that I usually remind everyone that it is not a race.  Egos take hold and it is no longer a group ride.  There was a time when if riders broke off from the group, they would stop at least once and we would regroup.  This no longer happens and the slower riders feel discouraged.  I know what that feels like and that is why I no longer go to Wednesday night rides.  The only time I was with anyone was in the parking lot.  Since I am always at the back, I am with the slower riders and have had several express that they were discouraged and then not return.  I would like to have my group return to occasionally regrouping and if this is not possible for you, you should consider riding with Mike/Tom’s group.

I’m open to suggestions and welcome your feedback.