Skill level of the OP aside, the guy following was doing at least 20MPH faster and apparently hot dogging for a camera on a 2 lane road seconds after the ride began.
This thread can go on forever since it's obvious there are two distinct camps and philosophies about group riding and responsibilities. Like most things in life, it's becoming apparent that in this situation, you can't lay 100% of the blame at the feet of either rider. Probably more like 70/30 and the numbers will swing depending on which "camp" you're in.
I think the most important lesson here concerns large group rides in general. They are a TOTALLY different animal than riding alone or with one or two buddies. They tend to take on a personality of their own depending on the purpose of the ride and the type of riders involved. You have to carefully assess your own riding skills and desires and decide if it's a good match with the group on that particular day. Absolutely no shame in admitting that you're not up for the group ride that day.
One of the last things our MSF instructor told us was not to rush off and ride The Dragon and not to go out and do a large group ride for at least a good year of riding. Starting to sound like very good advice!
This thread can go on forever since it's obvious there are two distinct camps and philosophies about group riding and responsibilities. Like most things in life, it's becoming apparent that in this situation, you can't lay 100% of the blame at the feet of either rider. Probably more like 70/30 and the numbers will swing depending on which "camp" you're in.
I think the most important lesson here concerns large group rides in general. They are a TOTALLY different animal than riding alone or with one or two buddies. They tend to take on a personality of their own depending on the purpose of the ride and the type of riders involved. You have to carefully assess your own riding skills and desires and decide if it's a good match with the group on that particular day. Absolutely no shame in admitting that you're not up for the group ride that day.
One of the last things our MSF instructor told us was not to rush off and ride The Dragon and not to go out and do a large group ride for at least a good year of riding. Starting to sound like very good advice!