Considering the mass exodus

My concerns about a possible distance group ride was mentioned at the end of the last post. Going through this site, i came across a telling paragraph on group rides and those who should re-rethink them:

Pushing past one's ability to safely control the bike in an emergency, no matter how unexpected the situation may be, is what novice riders are notorious for doing with devastating results. In fact, a really good way of having your first accident is to go out for a group ride with more experienced riders and trying to keep up with them if they are making progress at a faster pace than is within your envelope of abitlity. You are put in an invidious position: not wanting to appear a whimp while trying to keep the shiny side up. Much better to slow down and go at your own pace - meet up with the other riders at the next refreshment rendevous!

85% of all motorcycle accidents involve riders with less than 2 years of riding experience.
The Ultimate Objective - Motorcycle Riding Techniques

It describes the potential scenario rather well. The only exception to the above might be my resignation to wimpishness (being a girl lets you get away with a lot of things). I know when i can attempt heroism; and i doubt i'd try it at this point. I'm well aware of a large number of things i am insufficiently prepared for on a bike, so i can only guess at how much i need to know that i don't have a clue about. But peer pressure makes funny friction against ego. At some stage i'll get sick of being left 50 miles behind and will probably decide i feel more capable than i actually am.

Still considering it. I've got approximately 2 weeks to make my decision. It all depends on how much practice i get between then and now.