Lemon poppyseed muffins at Metropolis

• What exactly is a group ride?

  Hyde Park has all varieties of cycling enthusiasts. It seems to me that we're experiencing some growing pains among some of the regular and new group rides. Some folks are seeking companionship and camaraderie; others would like to train for racing; many are simply trying to gain confidence in close quarters; and a few seem to be trying to impress themselves or others. It should go without saying that all of the TATI rides, whether or not they're folded into UCVC rides, are meant to be casual, non-competitive, and ultimately positive social interactions. Please don't try to hijack our friendly crew with your anti-social antics! That said, I empathize with some of the new racers who are simply looking for some fun, fast riding buddies. Unfortunately, I get much more excited about a perfect lemon poppyseed muffin than VO2 max metrics. If you are in need of a faster paced ride, try calling your own by posting to the UCVC listserv.

  The thing is, recreational cycling is really booming right now on the south side, and that's a good thing for everyone. Triathletes, coffee hunters, commuters, fixie kids, roadies, and cyclocrossers are all out enjoying the path these days. And everyone needs a little love, yes? But let's do get a few things straight.

  I host a morning weekday coffee ride that runs from Hyde Park to the end of the path, terminating at Metropolis Coffee on Granville. This is a no-drop ride, and so it's pretty slow sometimes. If this annoys you, feel free to zoom ahead and do your thing -- but please don't yo-yo or stick with the group and attempt to push the pace. The pace ranges anywhere from 12-18MPH depending on who shows up. Once at Metropolis, I always stop and go inside for a cup of coffee (Metropolis roasts their own beans, and probably makes the best cup in the city) and a snack. Therefore, the entire journey can last up to three hours. Folks talk about their latest research, bitch about politics, and razz one another for unfortunate bicycle style -- it's an informal crew, but with ideally solid handling skills and good form. Newcomers are very welcome and in fact, this is a great way to introduce yourself to the notion of longer rides and basic group cycling dynamics. Feel free to ask questions and learn!

  The afternoon rides are a bit different. These rides will eventually evolve into opt-in drills and skill-building clinics for the UCVC once the season gets a bit closer. Lately we have been working on things like pacelining in the wind, leading out a sprint, and upper body form while spinning. They're still casual, though, so please don't try to come out and blow folks away with your blazing speed. That's what the HPTT is for, after all.