[kpennell]

Cycling is how I've met most of my friends and acquaintances in the bay area. There's an absolutely massive cycling scene and it covers MTB, gravel, road, and random fun things like bike parties (SF, East Bay, and San Jose each have their own ones).

[AbstractH24]

I enjoy cycling, long rides upstate here in nyc.

But I’ve never understood how it can be a social thing, as you are on a bike isolated from other. It feels like the epitome of being alone with my thoughts in the woods, not interacting with others in real life or electronically.

I know people do it and I keep meaning to try, but part of the reason I never get around to it is I’m not quite sure I understand how it would work.

[jerlam]

The real social part of cycling (and most athletic activities) is the pre-ride and post-ride hangout. It's usually not the riding part.

But on the ride itself, social rides usually involve being in very close proximity (handlebars only a few inches away from each other), and it's normal to strike up a conversation.

[freejazz]

It's really simple, you ride with others instead of just by yourself.

> as you are on a bike isolated from other

No, you aren't. Maybe on a climb.

[beretguy]

Bay Area also has underground street racing community. Maybe worth checking out.