About 90 percent of my riding is done alone. I prefer it that way, to be honest. Riding on open roads is my release. It’s completely freeing and liberating, and I look forward to those long rides with no phone, no email and no chatter. But riding alone isn’t good for me — at least not if I want to become a better cyclist or complete the Nashville century.
When I ride with other cyclist, I am strengthened. I ride a faster pace, and I’m usually challenged by the course. Plus, there’s accountability. It’s something I must do if I want to increase my speed and train for a century. The problem? I’m terrified to ride with other people. For starters, I’m slower than most. I know that will improve over time, but at this point, I can’t keep pace with a group ride. I’m either left behind or I drag the entire group’s pace down, which is no fun for anyone.
Secondly, I have diabetes. It’s a fact I will have to stop to test and/or eat as I ride. It’s just part of cycling with diabetes. When you ride with others, they don’t always understand how it works, and I don’t want to be the person who makes someone stop and wait for me. Because it’s my nature to please people, I will push myself to ride while dropping or low so as to not inconvenience anyone (especially a large group). And we all know how dangerous that scenario can be.
Lastly, since we’re being completely honest here, I’m scared of other cyclists. It’s true, I am. I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m not experienced. And I don’t have the typical athlete mentality or drive. Most cyclists I know have all three of those things. Hardcore might be a better word for it. I love cycling, but I’m not on the same level as many cyclists I’ve met. So, truth be told, I’m scared of the hardcore cyclists. Perhaps it’s dumb, but it’s a justifiable fear for me and another reason I avoid riding in groups. I’m easily intimidated and being around other cyclists does exactly that, so I am afraid.
Now that I’ve admitted why I often ride alone, anyone have any suggestions? (I fear the only real answer is to suck it up and just do it.)
You can always ride with those new cyclists that get D and will be training for the Nashville ride as well. 🙂 #justsaying Also, I think it would be helpful to have a small informational meeting on group riding (etiquette and all) and how to change a tire, and what bike tools to have when riding…just some food for thought and things I wish I knew as well.
First of all, what Sarah said… good advice.
Second, my advice would be to always have a Plan B in mind when riding. As in, “What do I do if X happens?”. You may never need it, but Plan B will boost your confidence and make you feel like you can handle anything.
Third, your post makes me think of playing golf with my brother, who is an exceptional golfer. By comparison, I’m a hack. I confessed my nervousness about this to him one day, and he said that once you tee off on the first hole, no one even notices how well or how poorly you play. So just have fun.
This is about something greater than you. But you can still enjoy it too. Stay focused on the inspiration, and you’ll find the right path and have fun too.
One of the great things about something like cycling is that there is a HUGE variety in experience levels and riders.
Maybe you can chat with some local bike shops and tell them about your concerns. I bet they have some thoughts on how to link up with a group that will be just what you need.
Oh man, I remember feeling like this when I started cycling. (I probably would still feel like this, if I cycled more! Damn living in NYC!) Same with running. The thing that has gotten me most comfortable is time. But speaking up about my needs helps. People are much more likely to stop and walk with me if I announce that I need to check my BG or take a break due to a low.
I think Scott’s idea of contacting a bike shop is great. Not only can they point you in the direction of others, they can also recommend some educational resources (books, websites, etc) about basic bike repair and drills to improve your bike technique.
Have you contacted your local JDRF chapter? Maybe there are lots of others in your area who are also doing the ride, and they organize training rides. (I know the ADA does this for the Tour de Cure. Hey, there’s an idea! Ask them, too). And if the JDRF doesn’t have training rides….well, could you start one? Team up with an experienced cyclist, plan a route, and welcome all experience levels? That could be a SUPER way to welcome other people who may also feel shy.
Finally, speaking as someone who went from “not hardcore” to “hardcore”….the super-athletic people are nicer than you think. They WANT to see you succeed and join the bike world more fully. Sure, some might take off on a ride, but I bet more people would ride with you, support you, and encourage you than you think. There is a small minority of jerks, and a lot of people who seem surly and hyper-focused on the outside but are really rooting for everyone on the inside. Go for it!