Did I ask him on a date?

I don’t see it like this at all.

What caught my eye about your original post was that as group facilitator he might feel unable to see, or uncomfortable about seeing, group members outside of group.

But then why did he give me his number when I initially asked him to go riding sometime?

Seesaw

He maybe gave you a number with idea of just biking together, but when it was suggested to hang out instead, then it became more personal and he isn’t comfortable with that (again doesn’t want to see people outside of group or is dating someone etc). Also you said when you suggested biking together, he looked confused, so maybe he wasn’t sure what needs to be done at the moment. Then later he thought it might be awkward to see you outside of group.

I can think of some possibilities. Perhaps:

—He did not want to give you a hard no
—He first thought yes, or was too flustered to really think, but then reconsidered
—He did not want to give you a hard no to your face
—He believed that he would spare your feelings, and/or make it easier for himself, by being indirect.

(((((Seesaw)))))

you have not sunk to any new low at all. In fact I think you've made a big step here in doing something but his saying no is really not unlike what 99% of other people, challenges or not, go through. It's a risk. The part that exaggerates the feeling that it's a new low is that it's not like you're the type to do this all the time so... after having not dated or asked anyone out, etc... and getting a "no" is amplified. Let it make you feel disappointed in the situation and the outcome but not in yourself. You did good in taking the chance.

And as for all those people switching partners like clothing, I wouldn't trade my place with them in a million years. That just means they are shallow enough to take dating as a game and people as throwaway toys. don't compare yourself with them. Some guy will be lucky to get to date you when that happens because you're not one of them.

Definitely do the riding thing when you can. Look at as friends for now. It's a good start to any relationship. Don't expect more right now. Just enjoy being with a new friend.