Some good points raised.
Let me tell you how things have evolved in the North East.
We started before the area groups were formed, so we have an 18 month start on everyone else (except MacRetro who were the real pioneers).
Rides were small to start with, just a few regulars turning up for monthly meets. We then worked on getting the numbers up. It was all about creating a buzz. When folk see you are having fun they join in.
So key points....
Communication. You have to be a pain in the arse and make sure everyone knows what you are up to. If your ride is taking place near to the border of another area group, let them know. This often generates several new riders. We have had attendees from NWA, MacRetro, Mids and Linc & Anglia to our monthy rides because we let them know what was planned. Often joining forces with your neighbouring AEC can be a great idea- you share the load and get more bums on saddles.
Plan ahead. In late september we start a new thread to discuss where the rides will be the collowing year. Identify pockets of attendees and make sure there is a ride near to them- use their local knowledge! Ask where people want to ride, when they want to ride- saturdays or sundays, and make provision for both. Get 20 suggestions and whittle them down to 10-12 rides. Then, working together fashion them into a calendar. Loosely speaking we go for the 3rd weekend of the month. Stagger them around the area so there is always something local for some and an adventure for others- keep it fresh!
By having a calendar sorted by christmas people can make plans before holidays are booked.
Welcome all. Modern or Retro. Its more about attitude than machines. The rides are special because of the people attending, no matter what they ride. Encourage folk to bring a friend along- share costs and company on longer drives. Several of my local friends are now getting into the spirit and are rebuilding old bikes that have sat at the back of the garage for 15 years.
Keep the faith. Rome wasn't built in a day. Work together, create a sense of fun, show folk they are missing out.
Make sure each ride has a good write up and lots of quality photos. Concentrate on the scenery and smiling faces. Active members always look at aftermath threads so make sure you tempt them to your rides. Us Northerners like a road trip, so you never know you might have us roll up one morning.
Finally, don't let geography frighten you. Quality rides attract riders from far afield. NE&Yorks and MacRetro are much bigger areas, with poorer road networks and sparse membership. If we can do it, so can you. Last years BDW had people drive for seven hours in each direction to attend. Make it worth the effort and treat them well and they will be back in bigger numbers.
Best of luck guys and i hope my few tips help. Don't forget that other AECs are always there to help if you get stuck for ideas or need a little support.
SJ