We’ve always known that Group Rides are an inherently social phenomenon. And while we all need to get our training in, it’s the camaraderie of Group Rides that keeps training from getting stale and allows us to test ourselves against stronger riders. So it should come as no surprise that Facebook Groups dedicated to specific Group Rides have been sprouting up to enhance communication and camaraderie. Maybe your local rides have had a Facebook Group for a while now but around here it’s a relatively new occurrence. What’s surprising is that it’s taken this long, especially here in the hometown of Facebook.
There are two Group Rides that I’m connected with on Facebook – The Noon Ride and The Spectrum Ride. The Noon Ride is a daily occurrence during the work week and typically alternates a few different route options on Tues/Thurs. The FB Group administrator (read: Patron) posts route changes at the beginning of the week and includes any other information that riders need to know. The Spectrum Ride happens once a week with the same route every Saturday morning and this ride’s FB Group is more of a way for riders to connect and share info or stories online.
Both FB Groups provide a forum for riders to interact throughout the week. But the best part about these FB Groups is that it promotes leadership that translates to better and safer riding while out on the road. The Noon Ride administrator does a fantastic job of informing regular riders about route changes and anything else that we need to know. And it’s also entertaining! Who knew cyclists could be so funny? Riders post stories, interact about recent rides, and provide information about upcoming races.
In the past, friendships out on the road tended to stay out on the road. But now, getting to know my fellow riders a bit more off the bike has definitely enhanced my overall riding and training experience.
The Noon Ride Facebook Group is HERE and the Spectrum Ride Facebook Group is HERE.
Just a note for Bay Area readers, the Spectrum Ride FB Group is open for anyone to join but the Noon Ride is a closed group. You’ll have to be a regular rider to be admitted by the administrator.
Does your local Group Ride have a Facebook Group? And if so, how do riders in your area use the group to interact?
Ride on…
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