Find a pace that suits you.

Finding a group ride that matches your pace and fitness level insures that you”ll enjoy and benefit from the group ride.

Check with the ride leader for any updates as the pace of a ride can change.  This will help you avoid being frustrated by a slow pace or unable to keep up with a faster pace.

Listed below is the average pace speed that a group maintains.  During the ride the group may go faster or slower, but if you join them you should be able to maintain the pace listed for the duration of the ride. 

A few things to keep in mind.

You need to be very experienced and comfortable in a single and double paceline for the Road B up to Pro A pace categories listed below.

If you want to learn and gain experience riding in a paceline, you should join a Road C or Road Casual Ride to build up your confidence and learn from others.

Also, the reason we list rides in so many pace categories is that there is a big difference between holding an average pace of 18 mph verses 20 mph.

Drop and no-drop rides

Drop rides mean if you fall off the pace, you are dropped and left behind.  Maybe you can catch up at a stop sign, but generally the group will not wait for you.  You need to know the route to find your way back home.  A no-drop ride indicates that a rider will be designated as a “sweeper”.  The sweeper will usually ride at the pace of the slowest person and stay with them.  However, a rider who averages 14 mph pace shouldn’t join a no-drop group that averages 18 mph.  It can be frustrating for both the group and the rider because of the big difference in pace level.  Only move up to the next pace level to test and push your fitness.

Note to ride leaders

We encourage ride leaders to describe their rides in the most specific way possible. Letters like “A”, “B” or “C” can be misleading because they mean different things for different groups.  When submitting your rides, please use ibisrides pace levels.  It will provide common lingo.  And it helps riders find the ride that truly best fits their skill level.

 

Descriptions of pace and type rides.

Pro A  /  24+ mph

Hang on for this group ride!  Only for very fast, fit and skilled riders in a paceline.  A tight pack that can be in a single and sometimes double paceline.

 

Road Pro B  /  22+ mph

Only for experienced, skilled riders in paceline riding.  A tight pack. Can be a white knuckle ride with rotating leaders off the front.

 

Road A  /  20-21 mph average

An exhilarating ride for those who are skilled at riding in a paceline and maintaining a high speed over 15 to 20 miles before a break.  Tend to be 35 miles and more in length.

 

Road B  /  18-19 mph average

A brisk pace for those who have a need for some more speed.  If you feel comfortable in a pace line and can average this pace with infrequent breaks, then join in. 

 

Road C+  /  16-17 mph average

If you like a paceline, and want to go at a comfortable pace, with some shared pace leaders, then this may be your ride. 

 

Road C  /  14-15 mph average

This is a nice step up for casual riders. Develop your paceline skills.  They tend to stop regularly and go at a manageable distance for those who ride regularly during the week and chat along the way. 

 

Road Casual  /  12-13 mph average

This is a good pace if you are starting out on group rides.  It’s a good way to learn about and become comfortable in a paceline or riding with a group.  These  usually are shorter distances and stop regularly to regroup.

 

Gravel

Feel like a kid again riding down rural, dirt roads or trails.  You need a wider tire for gravel rides.   From 32c on up.  38c and wider is best.  Hybrid and gravel bikes are made for gravel riding.  Contact the ride leader about pace of the ride.

 

MTB / Trails

These rides are on narrow trails that are single or double track wide.  Mountain bike (MTB) and trail rides often include crossing narrow bridges and traversing streams.  While some trails are tame enough for a hybrid bike, it is definitely advisable to ride a mountain bike for more challenging rides with alot of tree roots across the trail.  MTB trails can be closed looped, groomed trails that have jumps and quick banked turns. 

 

Thank you.  We hope you find the ride that matches your fitness, experience and pace.  Have a great group ride and be safe.

 

Find Your Ride