6 is the perfect number!

Riding with a group can be fun, however how many is too many?

Is 6 the perfect number for you?

Group riding has its Pro’s and Con’s. It is up to you to decide and to balance how many riders makes for the most enjoyable riding experience.

We have all been on a ride when something negative has happened to a rider in the group. This could be a lost key, a rider running out of fuel, mechanical issues, dropping a bike or probably the worst scenario a health concern. In these cases it is very comforting to know that there are a number of people in the group that might be able to lend some assistance. There is peace of mind in numbers.

There are times however that too many riders can cause some issues. How many of you have been on a group ride and the leader or someone in the group decides to make a sudden change of direction, or breaks quickly and hard due to a hazard in the road? This makes for a few scary moments as all of the riders in the group have to adjust and make changes to avoid any obstacles ahead of them. This chain reaction can be dangerous. It only takes one rider not paying attention and disaster strikes.  

The above mentioned Pro’s and Con’s can never be planned for, however I do feel that all the scenarios listed are best addressed with the “Perfect 6”. Six bikes to me is the perfect number. The group can stay close to each other, without the dreaded rubber band effect. Depending on skill level, the pace can be spirited without causing too much separation or getting to bunched up. Last but not least it also lends itself to having enough riders that can help in an emergency situation.

I understand that this number could be smaller or larger depending on the situation. Today I am painting with a broad brush, but I am sticking with the number 6.

What is your perfect number and why? Tell me your thoughts.