I've been aiming for a century ride most of this summer, but I finally finished one yesterday. I rode 85 miles on two occasions, but the heat got to me and I played it safe. I do most of my riding, including this run, on the Chief Ladiga/Silver Comet in GA and AL.
I'm just a casual cyclist, and I appreciate everyone else who shared their progress and tips. I started riding about a year ago…I had just gotten divorced, and my body was 70% mashed potatoes. Cycling really kept me from ending up in a dark place. What people say is definitely true, it is great for your mental health. I've lost 40lbs in the last year, too.
A few random thoughts from my experience:
-Looking at the leader boards and records can be deflating. Comparison is the thief of joy. Focus on beating the old you that's made of mashed potatoes.
-It's ok if you're starting out and struggling to do 20 miles. You're still doing what most people aren't.
-A lot of it is mental. The first time I rode 50 miles, I felt like I was gonna die. But I showed myself that I could do it.
by oatmeal_prophecies
11 Comments
Great work !!! I’m only at 50 mile rides, but I’ll be doing a century soon enough
Congratulations!! Epic!
That’s awesome! I am aiming for my first imperial century soon! Started riding this year and I am at 78 miles. I do race road, gravel and fat bike (in winter) so I can’t wait to finish my first century ride in all 3 disciplines!
Congratulations! 🎉Outstanding achievement!🚴🚴🏼♂️
Well done!! Here’s to many more.
Congratulations for the ride and for using rode correctly instead of “road”!
Nice and no cars! Good work
Hell yea 💪
What did you do at the end when you were 100 miles from where you started? Or was this a 50 mile round-trip?
Amazing and great job !
I’m new to regular biking, too. I’ve had to limit myself to very early pre-sun rides since I’m in AZ and the sun and traffic are dangerous, so I’ve been averaging anout 8-9 miles a day w/13 being the longest. I’m on a hybrid Specialized Roll 3.0 and love it, but it’s not exactly built for super-long road trips, but my next goal is 15 miles. In Phoenix we have very little elevation compared to you so that makes it easier.
You’re an inspiration and thanks for sharing !
Looks like a beautiful route! Congrats!