Gary,
I was also really impressed as how we rode as a group in GA. Spacing, pace, all of it. Particulary when we were in the mountains on Saturday and had to contend the the hay truck, the payloader on a flatbed and a couple of antagonistic cagers.
I too have bowed out of some larger rides because of sheer numbers; but then when the bike bike weeks come around, you're in a group whether you want to be or not. plus as Benny reminds us, there is also "other" traffic to contend with.
All in all, know yourself. Know what kind of a rider you are. I like what Greybeard related about his group experience. It's sort of like running a road race. If you're an 8 minute miler, you're not going to toe the line with the 5 minute brigade.
I have done rides where there was no choice but two across and made sure i was at least next to someone whose riding i could be confident in, but it's not always possible to create a "box" with people you know and whose riding skills you have faith in.
be safe out there...
mert
