I’ve been eager to do longer rides in areas where it might not be prudent to ride alone, and, also, to learn to ride well in a group — which is a very different matter to heading off on one’s own. Thanks to the Bicycle Club of Philadelphia, I’ve now taken my first group ride — and had a great time, too. We met up at the entrance to the Azalea Garden, near the Water Works, and behind the Philadelphia Art Museum.
I was early, so, naturally, I photographed Basil. A small boy passed by, with his father, who pointed out Basil to the child. “See the folded bicycle?” said the dad. “That’s not a bicycle!” replied the boy. Dad said it was, and the little guy turned back and took a long look, wonderingly. If they hadn’t left quickly, I’d have proven it to him.
The leader, and two members of the club, turned up shortly, and we took off, riding partly on streets, partly on trails, along the Manayunk Canal (I didn’t even know it existed!), into Manayunk and on to Conshohocken, were we stopped for coffee before heading back.
The leader had explained beforehand how signaling would be done, what expectations were in terms of following distance, etc., and the others were also very helpful along the ride. Everyone was very positive and encouraging, and made me feel most welcome — something I especially appreciated, since I am so new to this sort of thing.
On the way we waited for a train to pass before proceeding:
The route was mostly flat, but included one long hill. We stopped at the top, and the my companions were patient enough to allow me to take a couple of pictures
I’m not sure exactly where we were — I was just thrilled to be out on my first group ride, seeing a bunch of places, and things, I’d not seen from this perspective before.
That’s the Schuylkill River, though. I did get that!
Our leader offered to take a photo of Basil and me: It was about 37 when we started out; it had been 31 when I left home. I’m wearing five layers of various types of fibers here, as I’ve not quite figured out this cold-weather- riding thing, I was warm enough, especially while actually cycling, but might have benefited from re-working the layers a bit. The trick is to somehow remain mobile while swathed.
All three men who were along for this ride are ride leaders for The Bicycle Club of Philadelphia, and the Sunday “D” ride is a regular event, led by a different volunteer each week. This ride, at this level, is a great introduction to group riding, and I was thrilled to see that the BCP is such an active group. I’ve found that many cycling clubs aren’t very accommodating to D and C class riders; it’s great to find a club that is, and has enough members to justify scheduling the events.
I was interested to learn that the leader felt that I was riding at a C- level; that was helpful to know, and a surprise. One of the other fellows cautioned me, though, to regard ride ratings with some skepticism, as speed and intensity can vary quite a bit, depending on the leader’s style and inclinations. I’m looking forward to learning these things, and more, in the months to come.