Just been on my first group ride for over 20 years, now I remember why I gave them up, never been so bored on a bike in my life. I ride mainly alone or with a mate who rides at a similar pace to me. All this standing around in cliquey groups is not my scene. many seem to like it though, each to their own.
I HATE large groups only because of the domino effect. Charity ride, moisture laden covered bridge, one Goldwing, two Goldwing, three Goldwing and so on. I almost most got caught up to the the tune of one K 75 in the friggin deal,scary shit.
Next year the organizers AVOIDED those brides all together, decided they were too tricky for inexperienced riders.
Side by side riding is another NO NO. Granted there may be some police style formation skill involved with S by S but at a price if you have to deviate lane position. S by S in city traffic sometimes is OK but ONLY if I know the other riders skill set. Staggering is a much better method.