I've never ridden with other people before. What things do I need to be aware of when riding in a group?

Riding with others is generally a safer option but it does bring with it some additional risks due to the close proximity that riders are to one another. You’ll often see cyclists slipstreaming (or drafting) behind fellow riders, to save energy.

Riders will take turns at the front of the group, and after doing their stint, move to the rear. The closer you draft, the better the slipstream.

However, you shouldn't try to draft closer than is suitable for your skill level. Some additional group riding tips include: not overlapping the rear wheel of the rider in front; maintaining a consistent pace if at the front; signaling intentions by hand or voice if you are about to change positions or stop; not taking to the front only to slow down; riding slow until the rest of the group catches up; making changes at the front more frequently if riding into a headwind; and making sure the group wait for anyone suffering a puncture or any other difficulty.