i follow the rules of: break into groups if necessary the "new" group should have at least 1 experienced person in it, leading the ride at a pace with the newbies in mind. for me, at least, it was already terrifying to be riding roads that had more turns than the on ramp (on ramps were already scary enough). to have to lead the group.... that would've been lame. for me, since it's uber scary to ride a road that you know nothing about, but also for everyone else who already know the road in varying degrees and can safely get through them at varying speeds. all that time, "ride your own pace" might be hammered into everyone (at least, everyone who needed it to be pounded into them. at least, that's what she said). rules change for every group ride depending on what the group is consisting of, but the basics should remain the same: experienced rider(s) out front and at least 1 experienced rider leading the newbs. so, if there are only 3 riders, and 1 is new, then maybe 1 guy goes off to have fun if they are so inclined, and 1 stays with the new guy. more often not, everyone will stick together in that scenario, but shouldn't be required. but that's just my opinion, not a mandate.