Braving Houston streets alone can be a daunting task for rookies and skilled cyclists alike. Fortunately, the cycling scene has grown to include myriad groups devoted to all manner of rides. Whether you’re into socializing, training or exploring—whatever your skill and commitment level—there’s a pack of cyclists out there waiting for you.

Bayou Bikers

Vibe: A partly off-road ride exploring the beauty of the bayous

When: First Sunday of the month, 8 a.m.

Starting point: Market Square Park

Ride: Slow, 25-40 miles, mountain bike or equivalent recommended

Info: downtownhouston.org/calendar/bayou-bikers

Blue Line Bike Ride

Vibe: A serious training ride that keeps a consistent route—great if you’re working on your times

When: Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

Starting Point: Blue Line Bike Lab, 3302 White Oak Dr.

Ride: Divided into two groups of riders. Group A travels 30 miles at speeds of up to 26 mph. Group B travels 23 miles at a more moderate pace.

Info: bikehouston.org/weekly-rides-beta/blue-line-wednesday-ride

Bohemeo’s Bad Ass Bike Ride

Vibe: Kinda short, kinda slow, lots of fun

When: Thursdays, 7 p.m.

Starting point: Bohemeo’s, 708 Telephone Rd.

Ride: 12-15 mph for 12-15 miles except on the first Thursday, when the ride speeds up to 16-18 mph and hits the local hills, a.k.a. bridges.

Info: facebook.com/groups/106062032876910

Critical Mass

Vibe: The controversy-loving granddaddy of all group rides

When: Last Friday of the month, 7:15 p.m.

Starting point: Market Square Park

Ride: About 20 miles, super slow and social

Info: facebook.com/groups/MassHouston

Crucial Matter

Vibe: Ride. Eat. Party.

When: First Fridays (known as Tour de Tacos), third Fridays (Raspas & Elotes), 6:45 p.m.

Starting point: Market Square Park

Ride: About 15 miles, casual pace

Info: facebook.com/groups/crucialmatter

HTX Bike Social

Vibe: A smaller, faster version of Critical Mass

When: Second Friday of the month, 7:20 p.m.

Starting point: Varies, usually Whole Foods Market—Montrose, 701 Waugh Dr.

Ride:  18-24 miles at cruising speed with a themed mid-point stop

Info: facebook.com/groups/htxbike

Karbach Brews Cruise

Vibe: A bar crawl by bike

When: First Monday of the month, 7 p.m.

Starting point: Varies; ride hits two bars and then Karbach Brewing Co. 

Ride: Good for all skill levels at 11-12 mph

Info: karbachbrewing.com/tours/brews-cruise

Toxic Shocks

Vibe: A twice-weekly ride just for the ladies

When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

Starting point: Carnegie Vanguard High School, 1501 Taft St.

Ride: 15-20 miles at a “brisk but casual” pace

Info: facebook.com/groups/toxicshocks