Gaining new members and motivating current members?

Question

I have a motorcycle group in Phoenix, AZ. I started it on September 14, 2007. We are currently at 12 members. We have had two planned rides and myself, the moderator, along with one other member are the only ones that made it to the rides. Over half the group does not participate in polls or respond to RSVP's. I have now gotten to the point where I have informed the group that anybody that does not respond to an RSVP, will be kicked out of the group as well as 50% participation in a ride or it is cancelled. Anybody have advice on how to gain more members quicker and motivate the ones I have? Am I being to harse? I have been very patient to this point. Do I just wait until the group slowly builds and the more numbers means better participation? This is my first group and I do not know what to do? Anything that you may be able to help me with would be great. I advertise on Craigslist and one forum.I made a sign for members to put up in their areas. What else can I do?

Answer 1

You can advertise your group:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/AdBay...

It now has only 21 members but it is growing...

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Group...

This group has 3609 members...

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Group...

This group has 6605 members.

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/Group...

This group has 76 members but it is growing...

There are also other ad groups that you can join which are listed in these groups...

Answer 2

it's hard to tell members 'get active or get out', you may loose some over that. I'd add that promote code to other sites you may own, or create other sites that would get more page hits, that promote code will direct them to your group. add the groups link to your mail signature.

good luck! Phoenix is a great area