Originally Posted by
Koyote
There is no such thing as a "beginners bike," but there are beginner cyclists.
Go on whichever ride the cycling club folks suggest, and see how you do. If you belong in a different group, it'll be apparent.
Look I started cycling later in life but I do it several times a werk (both road and trail) and paid for professional coaching. This year I got a job nearer to home and cycle to work and back daily. I often cycle the route the main club uses by myself, that's how I know about them (so I don't think it's a question of my ability) but I was looking for a social element.