Group dynamics; who do you ride with and why?

[Rashika]

No I dont mean specific names, but I’m curious as to what sort of groups you ride with (if you DO ride with groups) and why you ride with them?
Do you like small groups or large groups?
Male or female? Heheheheeeee :innocent:
Are they only Kbers you ride with or people from other parts of your life?
Do you socialise with the KBers in other ways separate to riding, or is it KB people for rides only?
Do you post every ride on KB or just the more important/longer/something else ones?
Have you had bad experiences that have put you off group rides? What were they?
For those posted on KB, do you specify type of riders i.e. 250s only, slow speed/ fast speed (and therefore risk the condemnation of those NOT in the groups!), or is it just whoever turns up?
Is it planned months in advance or the day before? Do you have regular rides leaving the same place/time every week? (I know there are 1 or 2 across NZ)
What do you do if 40 people turn up? Do you split them into groups of skills/speed (if you have any knowledge of these) or just let them merge?

I’ve noticed a couple of people in chch complaining cos they haven’t had specific invites to every ride that happens in the area and wondered what happens elsewhere.
Should anyone who decides to go for a ride be responsible for inviting everyone they know or even DONT know (this is just an internet forum afterall!) on the ride, or just those they are happy riding with due to similar riding styles, speeds/age/interests/experience/gender??

There is a new evening ride planned midweek for chch riders by Devient E and Phoenix which is a great idea, although I’m sure a lot wont be able to make it due to other committments, me probably included at times. A good regular way to meet people if you haven't meet them before and then I guess ride with them in other instances.

Personally I dont ride that much locally. Yeah sure a quick blat round the bays on a sunny arvo but generally my riding is long distance to rallys or touring, with racing taking up a fair wack of my weekends now as well. I prefer to go for a decent blat when I have got the bike out, get her (and me) well and truly warmed up.
The longer rides are almost always posted on KB by someone, and usually months in advance.
I tend to mostly ride with people I have met on KB or other forums, a few newbies come and oldies go but there is probably a core group of 4-6 that will meet up on the spur of the moment. I have riden with a few different groups, some faster, some slower, some bigger but usually end up riding with the same relatively small bunch as I usually do. We also do other shit together like BBQs, dinners, movies. In other words socialise in a few ways beyond just riding.

What are your thoughts on this? What do YOU do?

I'm sure i will regret this... but that is what internet forums are all about huh, adult discusion? yeah right... :Punk:

[sAsLEX]

E F C most of the time.

[Colapop]

Don't care really... as long as they're not dicks! Fortunately I am a Whale-rider an I'm slow, so I don't invited along with fast people... I wave as they go by though

[miSTa]

:shit: Geez girl, you've been doing some serious thinking! :D Good topic.

There's probably three distinct groups I ride with:
1 - Me
2 - The chch crew who do the rallys
3 - The guys (and girl) who live in my part of town

All have a couple of things in common like same age group or there abouts, we tend to ride at the same pace, and feel safe with each others riding.

I can't add anything what you've said - it's pretty much sums up me as well plus I have to go to work now.

[HDTboy]

I haven't been on a big KB posted ride in a long time. I'm not sure why, but I do enjoy riding with my friends (most of whom I've met through KB) in any number.
The last big (20+) ride I went on, was organised by text message, and invite only. By KB standards, 90% of the group were fast riders. We were all looking forward to having a great blast around the coromandel, when one guy (new to the group) threw his bike into a feild, and chewed up a fair part of the day with recovery.
I don't know why the crash happened, and I don't hold it against the guy.

I find group rides are best with under 10 bikes, and organised privately. Posting on KB, you never know who's going to show up. That can be good, but it can also be bad.

When I first joined KB, I was doing organised rides every weekend. It was great for meeting people. The funny thing is, I don't think I know enough KBers, but often get told that I know everyone.

I think it's about time I did another group ride

[HDTboy]

E F C most of the time.

Do you drive the ute?

[sAsLEX]

Do you drive the ute?

You lost me there?

[ajturbo]

i will ride with ...

who ever fills out thier leathers real nice like....
they will have to have all the right size bumps... in the right places..

thier bike will have an odd thumping sound....

:msn-wink:

[Paul in NZ]

I have never felt the need to ride in groups - motorcycling is essentially a selfish pastime - I wallow in the solitude

[Colapop]

i will ride with ...

who ever fills out thier leathers real nice like....
they will have to have all the right size bumps... in the right places..

thier bike will have an odd thumping sound....

:msn-wink:
"Hi my name is AJ. I like long walks on the beac... O hell I can't lie! Gawd sakes I need a... woman preferably... "

I'd say you need to get out more... but I don't think that'd help...

[sAsLEX]

I have never felt the need to ride in groups - motorcycling is essentially a selfish pastime - I wallow in the solitude

In a way yes. At times it can be.


Motorcycling is kind of like golf. You rock up to the petrol station (tee/clubroom) looking to go out for a nice cruise(round) on your own and enjoy the sunshine and outdoors. Another chap/chappess is at the pump (1st tee) and you say hello and get talking about the new whoozamagig (whoozamagig ) you notice on their bike (bag). A couple of minutes later you're off on a ride (round) together, the thing being you can still relax in solitude whilst cruising (playing up the rough) until the next stop ( green).

Hmmm is that an analogy Hitcher..... following your thread of similes.

[Pumba]

Don't care really... as long as they're not dicks!

+1:niceone:

[Blackbird]

I either ride solo or with a small group that I trust implicitly with similar riding styles. In the early days of KB, I went on a group ride to Kawhia and some of the riding was so appalling that a few riders were a risk to other road users as well as themselves. I don't need that kind of stress on something I'm supposed to be enjoying. Never again!

Like Rashika, my real preference is for long-distance riding although there's nothing wrong with a fang too!

[Devil]

Generally in very small groups. Most often private with people who I trust.

If I did post on KB i'd specify a sort of speed.

Cant remember the last time I went on a KB group ride (excluding the thursday night ride). I will again some day, but not interested in dealing with the crashes that invariably happen in the larger groups.

[idb]

I prefer to ride by myself but I enjoy catching up with people at stops...I'll usually introduce myself to anyone else on a bike if I'm not meeting others that I know.
I just find that it is more stressful riding in a group because they never ride at the same pace as me (faster or slower) and you have take that little bit of extra care.
Mind you, I'm often saying something like..."I know what it is, it's a piece of cake to fix, I'll catch up with you at the next pub"...

The only time I catch up with KB folk is at rallies though I should make a bit more effort as I haven't met one I don't like yet...mind you, they are a pack of pissheads...I'm not sure I approve of that!!!

[Bass]

I either ride solo or with a small group that I trust implicitly with similar riding styles. In the early days of KB, I went on a group ride to Kawhia and some of the riding was so appalling that a few riders were a risk to other road users as well as themselves. I don't need that kind of stress on something I'm supposed to be enjoying. Never again!

Like Rashika, my real preference is for long-distance riding although there's nothing wrong with a fang too!

Bingo,
I used to do big group rides and was gravely concerned about some of the antics I saw.
The last straw was when a guy on one of these rides completed fucked up an intersection, clipped the rider in front of me and then tore his bike in half across the front of a car. His bike was reduced to a ball of junk and yet he got up and walked away, completely unharmed. It amazes me to this day. I still do the occasional large group ride but stay away from anyone that I don't know.
Get out with 3 or four friends reasonably regularly and always maintain good separations

[limbimtimwim]

I only ride with hardcore arrogant wankers.

Everyone else can just get fucked.

Just kidding, I love ya'all

[bungbung]

i will ride with ...

who ever fills out thier leathers real nice like....
they will have to have all the right size bumps... in the right places..

thier bike will have an odd thumping sound....

:msn-wink:

Fat men riding guzzis? (Sorry Paul)

[Grub]

I ride with the Nasty One ... and we talk to each other while we toodle along.

I ride with KB Wednesday and Sunday Cruisy rides because we have met and made friends with a lot of people hat way. I've never had a bad experience on a group riide (except falling off). We go to great destinations, share experiences with others and belong to a really cool community who will open their doors and hearts to you anywhere in the country

We've also done large group charity rides. They are fun for the spectacle, the noise, the cause, the occasion and because you can stop in the middle of a roundabout and stop cars.

[imdying]

Don't care for riding with other pepole much. Have a couple of friends I usually go with, mostly so there's somebody to call the helicopter if I need it. Don't like going with learners on 250s... small cock syndrome, always riding harder than is pertinent. Don't like going with learners who've just taken posession of there first 'big bike'. Got better things to do with my afternoons and evenings than wait for a ute to make it to the middle of nowhere to take the remains of their bike home.

[mechano]

i ride alone

[ManDownUnder]

I ride with two sets of people. Learners and quickish (racers leave me behind though with their risk profile and combination of hardware and skill)

I ride with people that are safe, fun and have a personality. People I can have a beer with. Riding's a social activity... so people I socialise with I guess.

[onearmedbandit]

Generally ride by myself a lot, just because a lot of the time on a bike I prefer it to be just me, the bike and the road. Go where I want, when I want, how fast I want. In saying that I don't mind riding in a groups on occassion but I'm not really into waiting around for a group discussion on the damn event. I just want to ride.

[idb]

i ride alone

Sounds like a George Thorogood song.

[idb]

Generally ride by myself a lot, just because a lot of the time on a bike I prefer it to be just me, the bike and the road. Go where I want, when I want, how fast I want. In saying that I don't mind riding in a groups on occassion but I'm not really into waiting around for a group discussion on the damn event. I just want to ride.

What I meant to say.

[Hitcher]

Mrs H and I rarely ride with others. When we do it's generally with people we like, trust and know.

The exception is TWCNR (in season, which I do solo), which is largely well-behaved, thanks to Uncle B's legacy. But then my preference is to ride sweeper.

[Goblin]

I used to ride with a couple of mates who know ALL the b-roads around the Waikato and BoP, until they moved away. Have been on a few biggish group rides through here but one time when photos got put up there were complaints from far and wide.
I've always enjoyed a good poker run until last year when there was a horrific crash and we spent the afternoon waiting for ambo and chopper. Kind of put me off the poker runs but I have done one since.
I really enjoy riding with the KB crew from here and Tauranga but I get a bit nervous if anyone rides too close.
I mostly ride with my mate Pete who I know and trust his riding, but I dont have a road legal bike atm so no riding for me.:bye:

[Big Dave]

But then my preference is to ride sweeper.


Broom Broom.

'Tis 'Sweep'.

My Dept.

[cowpoos]

I only ride on the track now! it has its ups and downs...but I love it!!
When I was riding on the road,I road alot with the in famous welly hardcore,lead by a famous rockstar biker ;) [who shall remain nameless!! because he rides a honda!!]..mostly organised via txt...a group of mostly quick riders, never any crashes, top group really!!

One thing I've never really got in my head is these group rides with 40+ bikers that leave auckland and only 30 bikes come back!! not sure whats in the water in auckland or is it a case of more ambition than ability?? and while thats going to be seen as a dig...its true at the same time...hmmm

[yungatart]

I ride with the HB crew, sometimes there is lots of us, some times only two or three.
I trust most of these guys implicitly! They are an awesome bunch to ride with. They always look after the less experienced riders.
Doesn't matter if its a fast ride or a slow ride, cos I'm always at the back "nanaring" along quite happily.

[fergie]

i ride solo ,omly because i live too far away from areas with other riders.

[Stickchick]

I ride with the HB crew, sometimes there is lots of us, some times only two or three.
I trust most of these guys implicitly! They are an awesome bunch to ride with. They always look after the less experienced riders.
Doesn't matter if its a fast ride or a slow ride, cos I'm always at the back "nanaring" along quite happily.

when I get myself sorted I'm right with you in the back there. But you are very right. I trust the group we ride with implicitly too and have also made great friends with them too.

[phoenixgtr]

When I was in Wellington most of my riding was in groups, either on TCWNR or on the weekends. I went for quick blasts by myself most weeks, but my real rides were with others. I learnt so much from riding with others and thats what I'm trying to pass on with the weekly rides in Chch. I understand that not everyone enjoys riding in groups and if thats the case, they won't. Personally, I prefer smaller groups. Theres more freedom that way. But theres nothing like riding along the motorway and theres bikes infront of you and bikes behind. I don't like rallys or charity rides though, i.e. trundling along a straight piece of road with god knows how many other bikes right up each others arses

[Al]

I ride most weekends and most of the time my wife is pillion.
We belong to ULYSSES and because we live 100km South of Darwin, we meet up with the group/s at the destination.
I generally like riding in a "loose" group, usually about 5 bikes and a big spacing between all of us.

Al

[jim.cox]

No I dont mean specific names, but I’m curious as to what sort of groups you ride with (if you DO ride with groups)

Being an anti-social little bastard I'm not into group rides at all.

I prefer my roads empty

[Swoop]

not sure whats in the water in auckland...
70% Waikato river filth (effluent, runoff, fertiliser and cowpoo...), 24% chemicals to kill the filth.
1% Pure water.:doh:

[yungatart]

70% Waikato river filth, 24% chemicals to kill the filth.
1% Pure water.:doh:

And the remaining 5%? Best not think about what that may be....

[Swoop]

And the remaining 5%? Best not think about what that may be....
The french have to dispose of their radioactive materials somewhere...:whistle:

[RC1]

dont care really but due to the fact i usually ride only for a couple of hours each sat and sun its usually short notice to get others together so i ride alone

[cowpoos]

70% Waikato river filth (effluent, runoff, fertiliser and cowpoo...), 24% chemicals to kill the filth.
1% Pure water.:doh:
its no wonder they're attracted to soil then!!!

[klingon]

I ride alone, although it's fun when you're out there pootling along and you kind of "hook up" with another bike or two, play around a bit then give a little wave as you go off in your own direction.

I don't go on the Auckland Thursday Night Rides as there always seem to be one or two incompetent people who end up endangering everyone.

On the other hand, I have been on a couple of ATNRs as a pillion, and I learned a lot by watching other riders. One thing that motivated me to get my own bike was watching someone on one of those rides and thinking "MY GOD! EVEN I COULD RIDE BETTER THAN THAT!!"

My partner rides with his brother and 3 or 4 others who have been riding together literally from the time they first learned to ride. They know and trust each other very well, and they have the occasional pillion ride which I'm very happy to tag along on.

[Deviant Esq]

I generally prefer to ride in a smallish group (up to a half dozen or so), or in a pair with a mate. IMO group rides of larger numbers should be more for a cruise than a fast ride (unless you split into "happy to cruise" and "feel like a hoon" groups), as someone will be trying to go too fast for their skill level and cause problems for the rest of the group, whether it be just a scary moment or them binning... or worse yet, taking out another member of the group. I don't ride alone very much unless I need to go somewhere... generally a fairly social biker and like to go for a ride with a mate. Then you've got someone to banter with while you're having your pie or pint. :yes:

I've ridden with a few down here in Chch, mostly from KB, just in pairs, and haven't come across anyone (yet) I wouldn't ride with again. Been on rides with T.W.R, Spuds1234, Phoenixgtr (fellow TCWNR Christchurch conspiritor ;)), Cowboyz6155, SpeedyGirl, and Far Queue in pairs... and heaps of guys in bigger groups (from KB and outside)... and hoping to meet some more on the Wednesday night ride. Cheers guys, you rock. :niceone:

[Weaver]

I ride any opportunity I get, and the group rides give me a destination to ride to.
I like the group rides cause you get to meet new people and because i haven't been riding long (about 6 weeks) its a good chance to learn from other people.

[xgnr]

Mostly ride solo but enjoy a small group ride with people that ride at my pace (slighty sporty but safe).

Enjoy long tours with a couple of mates but as I'm just back to riding and most of my mates are grown up (i.e. not allowed a bike anymore), live in the Mainland or simply moved on I ride alone... :crybaby:

Charity runs are great fun, lotsa noise and bikes yay. Most people are a bit more mature and take care.

Been on a couple of KB runs and had mixed experiences. Ruined by the usual dorks that overtake on blind corners, double yellows, bin on moderate corners etc but the majority laid back riders enjoying the company and being out on their bike.


Cheers

Stu

[JMemonic]

Never done much group riding, went to the March Hare way back with a few workmates from the time, it was a good ride until we meet up with a few others around Tekapo, these guys had a very different riding style and would race up the road at full speed then with for use to "catch up", would have been better if the kept going to be honest.

But having said that a group of folks who just want to get out together beetle along at legal speeds and enjoy the scenery sounds good to me. Maybe a stop or 2 for a coffee and the odd photo would be good as well, I really don't know.

I could get into a charity run or 2 for causes I feel are worth while, problem is I tend to find out about these things after the event.

[kiwifruit]

People that can ride.

[Bullitt]

I dont really know anyone outside of KB who rides bikes so all my group rides so far have been through here.

I prefer group rides at the moment as it gives me an opportunity to meet new people and find interesting roads given I havnt lived in Wellington very long.

Im not an overly quick rider so Id rather not ride with people that treat it like a race as Ill just hold them up (from being slow not from crashing trying to keep up), however I havnt seen any KB rides like that anyway so far.

[Skyryder]

Bit of a loner on this. Start, stop when I like and go where I like. Like the group rides for the social interaction but tend to hang back a bit and see who is doing what especialy with those that I have not ridden with.


Skyryder

[surfchick]

On my own 3/4's of the time - soul surfing is the same...

The rest of the split between a few KB crew and then also time with 2 non-kb mates...one of them I have to give a wide berth as he's written off 4 litre bikes on public roads...(at least non were ducatis) and he's since grown up a good bit :) less to more - ***now I trust him...but still give him space to blow it :Pokey: just in case there's a return to the hormone filled days :rolleyes:

[Terminated]

I am new to riding, May 2006, and since contributing to the kiwibiker website, I hope that I have provided encouragement to the general KB’er community.

Looking at the social dynamics, where and how we ride and with whom we ride, there can be a myriad of explanations.

How the general KB community accepts and blends in with each other is one of its good attributes.

Respect is earned, and through sensible and mature qualities, much enjoyment can be had when we go for a ride.

I look forward to my riding during the week and at weekends be it solo or in groups: whether it be an impromptu decision like at a cruisie Wednesday or Sunday ride, or whether it be a promulgated ride detailing route and destination, I will maintain a personal discipline in how I conduct myself and my riding.

Heads Up and Enjoy

[Steam]

I ride by myself, cos bikers are freaky fuckers. Weird, eccentric.
Nah, I'm just slower than everyone else, I don't like holding people up and also hate newbie rides cos everyone is so sickeningly encouraging and nice.

Maybe the real truth is I just don't like people.

[madmal64]

Group Rides
Sometimes I ride on the KB rides locally. Sundays & Wednesday night rides are good. These rides are fairly cruisy paced rides and are slower than my solo pace. I ride these rides IF thats the sort of riding I feel like doing. I use these more for a time to meet up with folks rather the the riding experience.
I do have a couple of other groups of folks that I ride with that are non KBers.
One of these is a relativley fast group and we all ride a similar style and I have been riding with these guys for a long while now and its great to goout with a group you know & trust and like to ride the same type of roads and distances. Our usual day ride is 500-600 ks. A decent ride that consists of riding and not a whole lot of stopping and coffee drinking. These rides are about riding more that the scenery
The other group is more like the KB rides I do. We tend to pick a great destination, usually a pub like Lake Ferry of Wimbolton and go there, have a meal & a drink then head back. These rides are more about the scenery and not the riding.
Solo
I also enjoy heading out on my own and finding roads that I havent ridden before or trying an old route in reverse.
I also tend to ride when the family goes away for a holiday or for the weekend. I know that probably sounds strange but I enjoy the time by myself and the kids enjoy keeping an eye out for Dad during the trip. I tend to stop often so the whole group arrives at the destination around the same time.

[Wiki Drifter]

Solo fer me:cool: Thats what biking means to me, a method of getting away from other people

[xwhatsit]

After the recent Auckland 250 ride chaos, I'm rather put off large groups, to be honest.

Two or three is good for me. I enjoy following GiJoe1313; he likes to ride at a pace that is a touch faster than me, meaning I have to come out of my comfort zone and push myself a bit. Concentrate on good lines and better technique than I normally ride with, so I can keep up. I learn new things when I do that.

Riding on my own is great, but I'm slightly fearful of venturing too far on my own. Off to Piha or Kaiaua is fine, but further afield it's always in the back of my mind that I'm riding a bike that's had a quarter of a century of abuse, 200kms from home, and that I haven't seen a friendly face for at least an hour.

Nevertheless that's part of the adventure.

[99TLS]

usually by myself so i can stop whenever i want or dont want

[Drum]

I like riding the KB rides, and in smaller groups with fellas I met on KB.
Mostly I like riding alone. And by alone I mean no other cars or bikes. Just me and the Kwaka so I can ride my own ride.

[kiwifruit]

Piha or Kaiaua is fine, but further afield it's always in the back of my mind that I'm riding a bike that's had a quarter of a century of abuse, 200kms from home, and that I haven't seen a friendly face for at least an hour.

Nevertheless that's part of the adventure.

thats the best part of it!!
i feel old :)

[kiwifruit]

ride my own ride.

this is the key,
no one cares how "fast" or "slow" you are...
If they do, all power to them

[Drum]

this is the key,
no one cares how "fast" or "slow" you are...
If they do, all power to them

True bro.
So many riders feel that people are watching them and judging them. I reckon the general public don't give a F**k about us leather clad wa**ers. We haven't got anything to prove to anyone.

From a car you look at the world like a picture through a frame. On a bike, you're in the picture.

OT:drinkup::drinknsin:sherlock:

[sAsLEX]

The stuff article with the car found Tirau kinda opened my eyes a bit.

A few of the places I ride I have no real idea of the names of the roads or my location etc and how often do solo riders leave a ride plan with someone let alone have one?

[Rashika]

when I get myself sorted I'm right with you in the back there. But you are very right. I trust the group we ride with implicitly too and have also made great friends with them too.
Trust is big thing on a bike; if you dont know the ones you are with how can you trust them to not put you in danger? I guess you need to ride with them a bit for that trust to be earned. And I dont know if short rides do that. Longer rides tend to show how skilled, patient, careful & courteous a rider is to others = trusting them... probably why I prefer those.



Solo
I also enjoy heading out on my own and finding roads that I havent ridden before or trying an old route in reverse.
I also tend to ride when the family goes away for a holiday or for the weekend. I know that probably sounds strange but I enjoy the time by myself and the kids enjoy keeping an eye out for Dad during the trip. I tend to stop often so the whole group arrives at the destination around the same time.
Now thats an interesting idea. A relative of mine is considering doing the same thing we they go on holiday. One drives the kids and other rides the bike and then they swap somewhere along the way, excellant idea for those with families.


After the recent Auckland 250 ride chaos, I'm rather put off large groups, to be honest...

...Riding on my own is great, but I'm slightly fearful of venturing too far on my own. Off to Piha or Kaiaua is fine, but further afield it's always in the back of my mind that I'm riding a bike that's had a quarter of a century of abuse, 200kms from home, and that I haven't seen a friendly face for at least an hour.

Nevertheless that's part of the adventure.
I have riden a fair bit on my own in the past, but less so these days. I guess I feel more comfortable having at least one other person along to watch out for me.

I'm actually surprised by the number who do ride alone (altho not really when you think about it cos it is solo enterprise), and those who are a bit put off by larger group rides. Seems that riders inexperience in group riding has been a cause of a fair bit of this (from what i have read).
I have done a fair number of fundraising rides, I guess they teach you a lot about keeping distance and being aware of other riders.
Can we improve that inexperience? How would you give feedback to someone who is being a nutter? apart from the obvious... I mean in a positive way to still encourage them without getting angry at them?
In the experiences I've had, if someone almost caused an accident with me involved I'd just steer clear of them from then on... I honestly couldn't be faaarkd bothering with them after that. (unless it was a good mate and a oneoff)

[dogsnbikes]

Mainly ride with the manawatu crew when on group rides when I can doesnt matter what size group and dont care who's infront or whos behind Im still riding my own ride

as I have the advantage of working bugger all I do alot of solo rides and will keep riding until the fuel light dictates a fuel stop

At the end of the day as long as Im my bike thats all that matters:Punk:

[Disco Dan]

Im another one that is put off by group rides. I show my face now and again at the meeting points to meet kb'ers.. but then I go ride solo somewhere else.

I have a friend who has been riding many many years and has a blackbird - capable of doing some pretty scary stuff on such a big bike and I trust him 110%. Also have a couple of girlies from uni that enjoy a pillion ride once in a while.

Most of my riding is unfortunatly commuting and I do 40-80ks a day on main roads. But if im feeling inclined i'll take the long way home or long way to work via some very nice twisty back roads.

Most people on here have a bad impression of me. You see my reputation on here. Some are even put off going for a ride with me. Thats fine. When a couple of KBer's told me I was a crap rider it mearly showed the ego fuelled colours of some of the more 'prominant' kb members. Because my friend who rides the blackbird pulled my aside once and told me just how good I was... he has seen me ride since day one. Thats good enough for me.

....I guess what im saying is, why should I put up with all the crap on group rides? The psycological warfare and disrespect, when the truth is that I am so much better....

KB is good for a laugh... but I very rarely ride in group rides.

[Grahameeboy]

Im another one that is put off by group rides. I show my face now and again at the meeting points to meet kb'ers.. but then I go ride solo somewhere else.

I have a friend who has been riding many many years and has a blackbird - capable of doing some pretty scary stuff on such a big bike and I trust him 110%. Also have a couple of girlies from uni that enjoy a pillion ride once in a while.

Most of my riding is unfortunatly commuting and I do 40-80ks a day on main roads. But if im feeling inclined i'll take the long way home or long way to work via some very nice twisty back roads.

Most people on here have a bad impression of me. You see my reputation on here. Some are even put off going for a ride with me. Thats fine. When a couple of KBer's told me I was a crap rider it mearly showed the ego fuelled colours of some of the more 'prominant' kb members. Because my friend who rides the blackbird pulled my aside once and told me just how good I was... he has seen me ride since day one. Thats good enough for me.

....I guess what im saying is, why should I put up with all the crap on group rides? The psycological warfare and disrespect, when the truth is that I am so much better....

KB is good for a laugh... but I very rarely ride in group rides.

Bad impression?? I am more than happy to go for a ride with you dude.......

I often do the Miranda / Clevedon route which is a great ride for a few hours.

I like group rides as it is good to meet up but also like solo rides so you can practice skills.

Anyway, I have been banned for Steve's rides so I have one up on you

[The Stranger]

Im another one that is put off by group rides. I show my face now and again at the meeting points to meet kb'ers.. but then I go ride solo somewhere else.

Most people on here have a bad impression of me. You see my reputation on here. Some are even put off going for a ride with me. Thats fine. When a couple of KBer's told me I was a crap rider it mearly showed the ego fuelled colours of some of the more 'prominant' kb members. Because my friend who rides the blackbird pulled my aside once and told me just how good I was... he has seen me ride since day one. Thats good enough for me.

....I guess what im saying is, why should I put up with all the crap on group rides? The psycological warfare and disrespect, when the truth is that I am so much better....

KB is good for a laugh... but I very rarely ride in group rides.

Shit man, lighten up. It's just guys being guys, nothing else. Everyone give shit about everyone's riding and everyone gets shit about their riding. Don't take it to heart.

Psst, most people on here don't actually have a bad impression of you, quite the opposite really.

[The Stranger]

Anyway, I have been banned for Steve's rides so I have one up on you

Steve? is that his KB handle?

[Grahameeboy]

Steve? is that his KB handle?

No..zzxrr....

[Bonez]

Don't mind group rides. Can be very entertaining. Tend to do the tail end charlie/sweeper thing if I know less experienced riders are in the group. Yeah there's been a few "moments" but hell that's life.

I do prefer solo riding though. Just something about being out on a back country road wringing out an old shitter that makes you feel alive.

[Goblin]

I do prefer solo riding though. Just something about being out on a back country road wringing out an old shitter that make you feel alive.Yes! I can relate to that. It's all very nice to be a hero on a flash fandangled dyno tuned, ohlins equipped modern litre sprotsbike but thrashing an old shitter is more satisfying for me anyway.

[HDTboy]

Yes! I can relate to that. It's all very nice to be a hero on a flash fandangled dyno tuned, ohlins equipped modern litre sprotsbike but thrashing an old shitter is more satisfying for me anyway.

I'll take either. Two wheels is where it's at.

[T.W.R]

Yes! I can relate to that. It's all very nice to be a hero on a flash fandangled dyno tuned, ohlins equipped modern litre sprotsbike but thrashing an old shitter is more satisfying for me anyway.

:shutup: why refer to older bikes as old shitters :lol: if it wasn't for the older bikes there wouldn't be the flash-harry wizzbangers getting around now.
A better feeling is being on the older bike & sticking to a modern race replica with a mobile toothpaste tube clad rider onboard. Too many these days see a modern bike and logo branded apparel as a sign of status.
When you get plenty of kms and different bikes clocked up under your belt you start to get beyond worrying about what your riding and whether your apparel is the latest in trend, as long as what you've got is working properly and doing it's job as it should.
As for riding dynamics with groups or solo it's dependant on the nature of the ride and the mindset of those you're riding with. When you've ridden with a group for a number of times the understanding between the riders develops and you know how each other is going to react in different situations & what each person's approach is. When riding in a fresh group building the understanding takes time and you can gauge within a few kms whether you can trust the riders around you or not. And when it boils down to it that's main element TRUST it isn't something taken for granted & it takes time to develop.
Over the years I've ridden with a shitload of different riders, and a smallish crew that I've ridden with right from the start, a good mix of Kbers, plenty of unknowns coming & going to rallies etc and out of the whole mix the guys I've ridden with since the start are the one's that I'll really scratch with. Everyone else can be ridden with at pace or sedately and there's only one rider that I've come across that I'd steer clear of again on the road because he was totally unruly & rode like he was just asking for trouble to happen.

Group riding you don't just think of your own ride you think of those about you and riding solo you think about you & the bike. We're responsible for our own actions and take judgement of those actions, in a group your actions affect those you're riding with and when solo you only answer to yourself, It's RESPECTING the group & acting accordingly & being responsible for those actions because they don't just effect you they effect those around you.

[Goblin]

with a mobile toothpaste tube clad rider onboard. :laugh: That's gold that is!!:lol:

I call my bike a shitter cos it is. But I love my shitter.

[MSTRS]

... but I very rarely ride in group rides.

Unless it's the Hell's Angels eh?:Pokey:
Our group rides are always fun and 'safe' (barring one freak incident). The group seems to naturally split into fast(er) and slow(er) and it works for us. Mind you, we have not been inundated by testosterone-filled dicks out to prove something. Should any like that turn up. I'm sure that they will be 'gently' told...

[Bonez]

:laugh: That's gold that is!!:lol:

I call my bike a shitter cos it is. But I love my shitter.
Maybe we should refer to them as "Rustic Rides":not:

[HDTboy]

I call my bike a shitter cos it is. But I love my shitter.

I love my shitter too. When it's not being a shitter.

[jrandom]

Mind you, we have not been inundated by testosterone-filled dicks out to prove something...

See you next weekend.

:lol:

[NinjaNanna]

My preference is for group rides of 10-15 bikes.

My reasons are 3 fold really -

1. I know nobody outside of KB that ride so I like meeting people and riding with others and I find groups of this size less intimidating at the lunch breaks

2. You get the advantage of local road knowledge and invariably end up riding awesome back roads that you never find yourself

3. I'm not a slow rider but I'm not fast either - I enjoy the occassional blat and fast corners but prefer to keep cruising speed on the straights around 130 on the back roads and around 115 on the main roads.... I find that groups of 10-15 naturally spit into 2 groups which works perfect for me.

For me my license is too important to me - hence my preference for the above cruising speeds plus the associated fines would be very difficult for me to afford with a young family.

So far I have been lucky with the longer group rides that I have been on - no bins and I have found a nice position in the group speed wise.

I also throughly enjoy the ATNR in Auckland - I LOVE it when 50+ bikes show up, its a buzz for me to be involved with something so popular. Sure there is an increased risk of some newbie crashing - but we aren't far from home and mobile coverage isn't a problem.

[sunhuntin]

i tend to ride solo... my group rides are kept to one a year, and thats the local triumph club charity ride. thats a mix of men and women, mix of bike makes and sizes and 99% of the time well organised. i occasionally ride in pairs or 3s, but rarely. if ive got the chance to go out with an unfamiliar group, i try and tack along as pillion only... mainly cos the vee-go will be left in the dust!

[MSTRS]

See you next weekend.

:lol:

LOCK UP YOUR DAUGHTERS!!!
DESTROY ALL THE MAPS!!
HEAD FOR THE HILLS!!
:lol::whistle:

[Drew]

Mostly only on the track, but now that the stuntah is built, I spend a LOT of time piloting that too. I guess those are group rides, 35 of us line up on the track, and there are usually quite a few people keen to come out and do whellies and shit.

On the road I hang with the arrogant wanker types, or is that lead them??? (In arrogance and wankerism of course.)

[trumpy]

I ride alone 'cause I got no friends...:weep:

I have done a few KB rides and must admit I have enjoyed them despite generally ending up as "tailgunner". Doesn't really bother me though as I prefer my own space and like to ride my own ride.

I am not much into formal organisations so like the relaxed informality of the KB rides I have been on. Having said all that, riding alone has its own reality and freedom which at the end of a hard week is most welcome.

[slowpoke]

Usually just me, myself and I.
I enjoy riding with a handful of other like minded riders but haven't really hooked up with any this side of the ditch.
I've done one big KB ride and swore I'd never do it again: too many new riders with small bike syndrome and something to prove, too much waiting/dicking around, too much cringing at countless stupid manouveurs.......

[Drew]

Why would somebody ride by themselves? I mean, you wouldn't be able to brag about giving people the learn, or show off to other bikers how much better you can wheelie, or any of the fun stuff.

[Skyryder]

Why would somebody ride by themselves? I mean, you wouldn't be able to brag about giving people the learn, or show off to other bikers how much better you can wheelie, or any of the fun stuff.

Plenty downed bikers with your attitude. :scooter::stupid: Nothing I can say or anyone else for that matter that will change the way you ride. :sick::buggerd: Good luck.

Skyryder

[Drew]

Plenty downed bikers with your attitude. :scooter::stupid: Nothing I can say or anyone else for that matter that will change the way you ride. :sick::buggerd: Good luck.

Skyryder

Eat shit ya tool, if you read my earlier post, you would have seen I do my racing on the track, and my stunting in a safe location.

It was a wind up, ya know, poking fun, having fun, that sort of thing.

The likes of you that take themselves so seriously need to lighten up.

Nothing I can say, or anyone else will change that, Good luck.

Drew

[tri boy]

Don't care really... as long as they're not dicks! Fortunately I am a Whale-rider an I'm slow, so I don't invited along with fast people... I wave as they go by though

+1:cool:
Will ride my own pace, and enjoy the company.:chase:

[sunhuntin]

Why would somebody ride by themselves? I mean, you wouldn't be able to brag about giving people the learn, or show off to other bikers how much better you can wheelie, or any of the fun stuff.

i ride solo cos ive got nothing to prove to anyone. im happy with the size of my tits... dont have to make em seem bigger by acting like a boob on the road.

:jerry:

[The Pastor]

I ride with anyone and everyone. except if everyone is way faster than me and i'd get left behind / hold everyone up. (im only on a 250)

[Goblin]

i ride solo cos ive got nothing to prove to anyone. im happy with the size of my tits... dont have to make em seem bigger by acting like a boob on the road.

:jerry::laugh: :2thumbsup

Must spread it round first...

[sunhuntin]

:laugh: :2thumbsup

Must spread it round first...

hehehe... i think ive got more rep from you in a short span of time than anyone else, lol. had 3 lots in something like 3 days? cheers! :third:

[Goblin]

Hehe...serial blinger!:shifty:

[sunhuntin]

Hehe...serial blinger!:shifty:

must spread it round from this side too. dangit!

[KoroJ]

I really enjoy riding on group rides with Ulysses or KB and don't care who I ride with. Sometimes I like to be up the front, other times I'm quite happy to cruise along at the back, although I generally consider myself to be more in the nana league than hot sprotsbiker.

I definitely prefer longer rides and to stay on the bike for hours on end, so leaving Rimutex, then stopping at the summit of the rimutakas isn't really my scene but I'm always happy to go with the flow on a group ride. Because I like longer rides I often ride solo and have been known to ride up to Tokaanu for a hot pool, or Rotorua for the day to see the Moko'.

To me the GC is the ultimate when it comes to a great ride.

[chanceyy]

good thread Rashika :yes:

being a newbie rider .. got learners late feb .. I started off riding with one experienced rider then graduated to a group of 4 experienced riders within a few weeks .. they knew my status & total lack of experience so was up to them to pass me safely .. the boyz would ride off into the distance but u4ea & I stuck together a fair bit (u4ea getting confidence back after a bad off) :blink:

then I went on a group ride with the ashhurst group .. yes I was at the back but with someone else looking out for me it sure built my confidence quickly .. I always ride my own ride :wari: .. sometimes I pootle along slowly as not getting into the flow ... other times I rock on a few mins after the faster riders have stopped

there are a couple of standout experienced riders in the group who really watch out for us newbie riders & its totally appreciated & gives you a more safer feeling knowing someone else is behind you :niceone:

I have organised one ride where 19 riders attended .. a natural order of speed ensued but with a tail end charlie & 2nd riders stopping at intersections it made the ride flow .. the slower riders mentioned they did not feel pressured to keep up as they knew someone would be waiting at corners for them .. that was a great day everyone had a blast and emphasis was on riding own ride .. :chase:

Also our group does socialise other than rides .. we are after all friends as well .. KB has been the vehicle that enabled us to meet & become friends in the first place :hug:

[surfchick]

Why would somebody ride by themselves? I mean, you wouldn't be able to brag about giving people the learn, or show off to other bikers how much better you can wheelie, or any of the fun stuff.

yes-sireeee-bob
if your knee scrapes down on a forest road and no-one's there to see it...:baby:

[Terminated]

From a car you look at the world like a picture through a frame. On a bike, you're in the picture.

I'd like to use that expression sometime. Well done and well said.

Heads Up and Enjoy

[oldguy]

Generally ride by myself , Go where I want, when I want, how fast I want. In saying that I don't mind riding in a groups on occassion but I'm not really into waiting around for a group discussion on the damn event. I just want to ride.

Yeah I,m of the same, was out on me own today. but In saying that I still do the odd KB rides.

[The Lone Rider]

No I dont mean specific names, but I’m curious as to what sort of groups you ride with (if you DO ride with groups) and why you ride with them?
Do you like small groups or large groups?
Male or female? Heheheheeeee :innocent:
Are they only Kbers you ride with or people from other parts of your life?
Do you socialise with the KBers in other ways separate to riding, or is it KB people for rides only?
Do you post every ride on KB or just the more important/longer/something else ones?
Have you had bad experiences that have put you off group rides? What were they?
For those posted on KB, do you specify type of riders i.e. 250s only, slow speed/ fast speed (and therefore risk the condemnation of those NOT in the groups!), or is it just whoever turns up?
Is it planned months in advance or the day before? Do you have regular rides leaving the same place/time every week? (I know there are 1 or 2 across NZ)
What do you do if 40 people turn up? Do you split them into groups of skills/speed (if you have any knowledge of these) or just let them merge?

I’ve noticed a couple of people in chch complaining cos they haven’t had specific invites to every ride that happens in the area and wondered what happens elsewhere.
Should anyone who decides to go for a ride be responsible for inviting everyone they know or even DONT know (this is just an internet forum afterall!) on the ride, or just those they are happy riding with due to similar riding styles, speeds/age/interests/experience/gender??

There is a new evening ride planned midweek for chch riders by Devient E and Phoenix which is a great idea, although I’m sure a lot wont be able to make it due to other committments, me probably included at times. A good regular way to meet people if you haven't meet them before and then I guess ride with them in other instances.

Personally I dont ride that much locally. Yeah sure a quick blat round the bays on a sunny arvo but generally my riding is long distance to rallys or touring, with racing taking up a fair wack of my weekends now as well. I prefer to go for a decent blat when I have got the bike out, get her (and me) well and truly warmed up.
The longer rides are almost always posted on KB by someone, and usually months in advance.
I tend to mostly ride with people I have met on KB or other forums, a few newbies come and oldies go but there is probably a core group of 4-6 that will meet up on the spur of the moment. I have riden with a few different groups, some faster, some slower, some bigger but usually end up riding with the same relatively small bunch as I usually do. We also do other shit together like BBQs, dinners, movies. In other words socialise in a few ways beyond just riding.

What are your thoughts on this? What do YOU do?

I'm sure i will regret this... but that is what internet forums are all about huh, adult discusion? yeah right... :Punk:

-Dont mind if large or small
-There are males and females as pillions and as riders
-Ages range from 20s up to 60s
-Some from KB, some not
-Riding, chatting online/in person/email/txting, pool and pub nights
-Our casual weekend rides are posted about a week to two weeks in advance,
-Rallies some of us are going to that arent already posted on KB get put up
-Nope, some people are rocket ships, some are casual, but as long as no body is dangerous it is fun and fine.
-No particular class of bikes - single banger 250 up to giant muthas-, ride pace to suit who's there, people who want to blast off are welcome to do so as long as theres a point they slow down so the group can stay together. Always someone willing to take the rear of the group and keep an eye out for anyone having issues (break downs or problems keeping up)
-Casual rides are planned about a week to two weeks ahead, everything else such as rallies, runs, and shows are posted on the online calendar whenever the information becomes available to one of us. We often will meet in the same place, but casual rides are dependent on when there was last a rally or show (we aim for doing something on a Saturday once every 2-3 weeks as a group- rally, casual, run, show or whatever).
-If 40 people showed up I'd be overwhelmed and I'd ask people to chip in to help organize how we want to do it. However, in the end it would be fun, everyone would arrive safely, and nobody would suffer more then a touch of jealousy when they see a bike they wish they had.
- BBQ, games of pool, pubs are also things on the calendar once in awhile.

On top of that, several, if not most ride their bikes on their own for the shear enjoyment of it and several also use their bikes for day to day life activities. So in the end it all comes down to every few weeks theres something on and they can go to it if they want to with all the others.

Takes work to keep everyone happy, but when you got great people then they are just happy to be there in the first place.

Man I had fun at River Rally :Punk:

Edit--
And I'd like to add that KB has been great in getting the group together and finding riders in both cruiser and non-cruiser formats.

[Rashika]

-Dont mind if large or small
-There are males and females as pillions and as riders
-Ages range from 20s up to 60s
-Some from KB, some not
-Riding, chatting online/in person/email/txting, pool and pub nights
-Our casual weekend rides are posted about a week to two weeks in advance,
-Rallies some of us are going to that arent already posted on KB get put up
-Nope, some people are rocket ships, some are casual, but as long as no body is dangerous it is fun and fine.
-No particular class of bikes - single banger 250 up to giant muthas-, ride pace to suit who's there, people who want to blast off are welcome to do so as long as theres a point they slow down so the group can stay together. Always someone willing to take the rear of the group and keep an eye out for anyone having issues (break downs or problems keeping up)
-Casual rides are planned about a week to two weeks ahead, everything else such as rallies, runs, and shows are posted on the online calendar whenever the information becomes available to one of us. We often will meet in the same place, but casual rides are dependent on when there was last a rally or show (we aim for doing something on a Saturday once every 2-3 weeks as a group- rally, casual, run, show or whatever).
-If 40 people showed up I'd be overwhelmed and I'd ask people to chip in to help organize how we want to do it. However, in the end it would be fun, everyone would arrive safely, and nobody would suffer more then a touch of jealousy when they see a bike they wish they had.
- BBQ, games of pool, pubs are also things on the calendar once in awhile.

On top of that, several, if not most ride their bikes on their own for the shear enjoyment of it and several also use their bikes for day to day life activities. So in the end it all comes down to every few weeks theres something on and they can go to it if they want to with all the others.

Takes work to keep everyone happy, but when you got great people then they are just happy to be there in the first place.

Man I had fun at River Rally :Punk:

Edit--
And I'd like to add that KB has been great in getting the group together and finding riders in both cruiser and non-cruiser formats.

sorry mate, been to the website, not allowed to join, dont have a cruiser...
You probably need to specify cruiser riders only on your rides, just in case non cruisers turn up, hate for people to get the wrong idea :sunny: (pt)

Chromed Knuckles Cruiser Group is a motorcycle social group for people of all ages that are located in Christchurch and the wider Canterbury region. All of us ride cruiser style bikes and we accept and ride with all varieties of cruisers ranging from small commuter designed bikes to large multiple cylinder road hogs.

In Chromed Knuckles, you will be able to ride with a group of great people who love their two wheels and the company of others with the same passion. A typical outing consists of meeting at a given place, going for a ride to a destination and then having a coffee and chat in the sun!

Other occassions we may join up with other motorcycle clubs, groups, and organisations for events they are hosting.

What do you need to do to join? Nothing but have a motorcycle license, and a cruiser style motorcycle! It costs nothing to join. Simple go to Contact Us and fill in the form.

[helenoftroy]

I prefer to ride by myself but I enjoy catching up with people at stops...I'll usually introduce myself to anyone else on a bike if I'm not meeting others that I know.

Last few months I do all my riding by myself.Always chat to anyone else on a bike if I get a chance - cant help myself:innocent:



I have riden a fair bit on my own in the past, but less so these days. I guess I feel more comfortable having at least one other person along to watch out for me.
I'm actually surprised by the number who do ride alone (altho not really when you think about it cos it is solo enterprise), and those who are a bit put off by larger group rides. Seems that riders inexperience in group riding has been a cause of a fair bit of this (from what i have read).

I look forward to meeting some KBers but have to admit the large group ride is totally new to me.Have only riden with small groups(3-4)of friends.Have ridden with Le mans & SDU - theyre great:2thumbsup.



As for riding dynamics with groups or solo it's dependant on the nature of the ride and the mindset of those you're riding with. When you've ridden with a group for a number of times the understanding between the riders develops and you know how each other is going to react in different situations & what each person's approach is. When riding in a fresh group building the understanding takes time and you can gauge within a few kms whether you can trust the riders around you or not. And when it boils down to it that's main element TRUST it isn't something taken for granted & it takes time to develop.
Group riding you don't just think of your own ride you think of those about you and riding solo you think about you & the bike. We're responsible for our own actions and take judgement of those actions, in a group your actions affect those you're riding with and when solo you only answer to yourself, It's RESPECTING the group & acting accordingly & being responsible for those actions because they don't just effect you they effect those around you.

Now this -T.W.R sums it up perfectly:rockon: