how slow am I?

[eclectic]

I was reading a post and the writer mentioned " at the slow speed of 13.4"

I thought "Oh Oh" my average speed is 13.5 and I thought I was doing OK:(

I ride about 100 miles per week with each ride being a minimum of 20 miles (have done up to 60 in a day this summer) Finished a 3 day tour with a total of 158 miles last week and you guessed it my average speed was 13.5

I am not a super strong rider but then again I am not a weakling either.

To make a longer story longer What I want to know is what are some of the averages out there and what kind of conditions are you riding in.

A typical ride for me here on the wide open prairie usually includes a minimum of a 10 mph wind. I ride a loop so am not getting a good tailwind benefit.

Closer to reality on the wind ( I always check weatherbug before I go) it is 14 - 20 mph

Also I always do at least one hill that is 1/2 - 1 mile long with about an 9% grade (we live in a valley) - I know that is an average killer I have yet to make it up faster than 7mph

The remainder of the various routes are rolling with the odd flat stretch

I have been working on my shifting and cadence and have found good improvement over last year.

I am not first in on the club ride (the Hammerheads are) but neither am I last
Last week one of the Hammerers pulled me for 5 miles then I teamed up with a friend who was faster than me so I pushed hard to keep up - my average for 25 miles that night was 14.3 (wind of course was about 18mph) no big hills

Oh yeah, I am riding a specialized sequoia and using clipless pedals

[jobob]

Your speed seems fine to me.

[salsabike]

Just as one frame of reference, here is the ride classification system used by a local club to define their ride paces. And, by the way, I average about 14.3 on my 30-40 mile trail rides. We are neither the fastest nor the slowest. I can live with that while I keep working to get better.


Easy: Under 10 mph
Leisurely: 10-12 mph
Steady: 12-14 mph
Moderate: 14-16 mph
Brisk: 16-18 mph
Strenuous: 18-21 mph
Super Strenuous: 22+ mph

[theride]

your speed is fine..I am much slower than you...:confused:

[Bad JuJu]

Depends on what you're going for. Are you planning to race at some point and want to get faster for that? Or would you just like to go faster so you can get to a particular destination faster? If not, who cares what your speed is if you're getting the fitness benefits you want and enjoying your rides?

My speed is slower than yours, though it's improving without my even trying, just because I'm riding more and improving my pedal stroke and aerobic capacity. I wouldn't mind being a little faster, but it's not really my goal. My goals are fitness and joy--if I'm not having a good time on the bike, something's wrong, regardless of speed. What I do measure are time, distance, and heart rate--those seem to be good indicators of fitness for me. But your goals might be different from mine.

Having said all that, 13.5 mph, esp. with the headwinds you mentioned, sounds pretty respectable to me.:)

[betagirl]

What the others said. I live in the Chicago area, so I understand the winds. Don't you love how they just shift on you? I've done rides in Iowa and Wisconsin, and by far the hardest part of riding in the open is the wind. That will certainly slow anyone down.

My average speed is faster than yours, but so what? I train to be fast, so I ride with clubs that hammer and sprint. I guess I just like to go fast. I'm not a racer, but I am competitive. On a flat ride, like my commute to school, I average about 20mph. On a hilly route, I average 15 if I'm lucky. If there's a good headwind, I drop to about 17-18mph on a flat route. On club rides we cruise at 22mph with sprints to 30mph. When I ride with my friend who's just getting into cycling, I go 11mph to stay with him. So I guess it all depends on what I'm doing. I think what's most important is that you're having fun. One thing I've noticed since going slower is I take time to see what's around me.

My $.02.

[jeannierides]

My speed is slower than yours, though it's improving without my even trying, just because I'm riding more and improving my pedal stroke and aerobic capacity. I wouldn't mind being a little faster, but it's not really my goal. My goals are fitness and joy--if I'm not having a good time on the bike, something's wrong, regardless of speed.
Having said all that, 13.5 mph, esp. with the headwinds you mentioned, sounds pretty respectable to me.:)

I totally agree! I have only just increased my speed to 14.3, having been at 13.1 for the longest time (it seemed)! Our rides are usually on rolling hills (and some of them I am just barely able to keep the wheels turning) and sometimes very flat areas with lots of wind! Just work at riding with a steady cadence, and ride as often as you can and you will improve whether it's a goal or not!
My SO and I do century rides, and the main reason I wanted to increase my speed is so that we wouldn't be riding into the night - long after all the others had finished!:o
And if I'm not having fun, I'm not gonna be riding! :)

[Lise]

I live, pretty much, where beta lives (I'm riding out to your neck of the woods today, beta, for the OP parade and bbq at my sisters!).

I am not, however, as fast as beta, since she trains more than I do! On my "old" bike (Marin Larkspur hybrid), fast was 18-19 mph. On my Bianchi Veloche, my top speed so far is 25 mph. Briefly. On the flats with no significant wind and no stop signs, I hang out around 20 mph. Into the wind, I'm lucky if I can maintain 12-13 mph. I can't fathom (yet) seeing "30" on my spedometer! The wind on the prairie...argh! If someone can post an explanation of how the wind can feel like it's blowing from every direction at once, I would appreciate it!

Speed is nice, I love speed. The light, fast bike really helps. People getting off the bike path for me really helps. The freaking wind just stopping really helps. Training my body helps. As others have said, unless you're racing, do you need to be at a certain speed? You sound like you ride long and hard and well to me!

[betagirl]

Hey Lise, humid enough for ya? Jeebus!!! :D It dropped to 88% now at least. It was 94% yesterday. I commuted into work at NMH, then met up with my friend to go to half shell (mmmm crab legs). Riding home was like riding through windy soup. I was so uncomfortable.

[Nanci]

You guys are WUSSES with only 94% humidity!!

My average speed is 14.5 or 15 on long rides. On Saturday's ride, it was 13. That means, under perfect conditions, I'm riding 18-20, but if I hit a hill, then that drops to 4-6 if it's a bad hill, and 13ish if the wind is bad. So no, I don't 13.5 is slow. That's about the average speed of the slowest rider in my group I like to ride with, which means that's the group's average speed.

On a long tour/ride- it's hard to raise your average speed (but also hard to make it worse!!).

Aerobars will increase your speed acouple mph or more, effortlessly.

Nanci

[KnottedYet]

Just checked my computer, and my average for my round-trip commute yesterday was 10.9 mph. I can get up to 29 mph going down one of the hills that goes for 3 or 4 blocks before a stop sign, and drop to about 5 mph going up the same hill.

On the flat bike path with few pedestrians/kids/dogs/riders I can get a faster average.

Really, 13.5 mph sounds pretty good to me.

[betagirl]

You guys are WUSSES with only 94% humidity!!

Hey it's not my fault you decided to live in a swamp. :D

You think we're bad, one of my teammates for RAGBRAI was in Iowa with a few others of us a couple weekends ago. The humidity was maybe 70% or so. He was like my god it's so humid! Then again he's from colorado.

[Kano]

Desert climate here, but I grew up in the midwest, and was totally blown away one day when someone suggested 25% was awfully muggy!

Eclectic -- I know exactly how you felt when you read the "slow ride" post! My average speed is around 11.5. Crawling up hills at around 4-5 messes with my speeds horribly! (I get really excited if I can stay above 6 on a hill!)

Karen in Boise

[Lise]

Hey Lise, humid enough for ya? Jeebus!!! :D It dropped to 88% now at least. It was 94% yesterday. I commuted into work at NMH, then met up with my friend to go to half shell (mmmm crab legs). Riding home was like riding through windy soup. I was so uncomfortable.
I know, I was sitting here at the computer at 7:10 AM, with sweat running down my back. Sitting here! What's that about? I'm grateful today's not a "run" day on my training schedule.

For some reason, I was fine riding yesterday evening. I went out at 6 PM, came back, oh, 8-ish, I guess. Rode 20 miles along the lakefront, stopping to stretch twice. I will say that it was cooler by the lake, felt like 8-10 degrees cooler. 5 blocks west of the lake, the heat hit me.

An now...to hit the hot pavement and go 9 miles farther west of the lake! Have a great day, everybody! :D

[Eden]

You all may be comparing apples to oranges too. Fess up - some people when they talk about their "average speed" may not be talking about what shows up on the cycle computer, but what they see the most when they look down on the flats.

If you are going purely by what the computer shows, where you ride will make a big difference in what your average speed is. How many times you have to stop for lights and stop signs or slow for traffic, how hilly, flat, windy, whether you ride solo or in a group will all make a difference in your average speed, but not really compare how strong you are to another person unless they have done the identical ride.

[Brandi]

Just as one frame of reference, here is the ride classification system used by a local club to define their ride paces. And, by the way, I average about 14.3 on my 30-40 mile trail rides. We are neither the fastest nor the slowest. I can live with that while I keep working to get better.


Easy: Under 10 mph
Leisurely: 10-12 mph
Steady: 12-14 mph
Moderate: 14-16 mph
Brisk: 16-18 mph
Strenuous: 18-21 mph
Super Strenuous: 22+ mph
I am with you on those fugures there. I seem to be a lot like you. Now going down hill I have managed 34 mph. So much fun.

[Brandy]

I'm a total newbie and I think I average under 13 mph most of the time. I'll have a better idea after I do a 50 mile ride with some climbing on Thursday. Sometimes I feel like I'm really slow, particularly when I look over on PCH and see the groups of club riders blow past me like I'm standing still, but eh...I've only been riding for two months and I'm sure that I'll keep improving :)

[bouncybouncy]

what eden said...

different rides are going to give you different results. when i started i was slow in comparison to the local riders...20 mph. now to those girls in the mtns i was fast...i now live in the mtns and have been working on my speed but not by looking at average speed unless it is the same route i am comparing...some routes i average 13-14 some i average as high as 18...the hills are to blame! you have wind...each day is different there so it may be harder to judge.

average speed is better taken seriously in a controlled environment.

pedal on and enjoy!!!

[Tuckervill]

If you are going purely by what the computer shows, where you ride will make a big difference in what your average speed is. How many times you have to stop for lights and stop signs or slow for traffic, how hilly, flat, windy, whether you ride solo or in a group will all make a difference in your average speed, but not really compare how strong you are to another person unless they have done the identical ride.

Right...this morning I decided to just go by time instead of miles. My computer doesn't calculate average speed, just top speed, miles, time. So this morning I rode for 1:32, on a hilly route. Sometimes I was going under 4 mph uphill. On one hill, I was going side to side, because it was so steep and I didn't want to push.

At the end of the ride, I'd gone 15.2 miles. That's an average speed of just 6mph. I'm happy with my ride, though, because it met my goals.

*Oh, I meant to day that a week or so ago I did a ride on the town trail in which I had a 16 mph average. It wasn't the distance I did today, though.

Karen

[Crankin]

You are doing fine. Unless you want to start training for racing or have a need for speed, your average will go up with experience, time, and maybe a little specific effort. When i started cycling, my average was probably around 12. That was on a mountain bike with slicks. After I got my first road bike, I did work on improving, and it went up to about 13.5. Now it's about 15.5, but the reason it isn't going up higher has to do with the kind of riding I do and who I ride with. I live in an area that's not flat, mostly rolling, but also with some hard climbs. When I ride by myself or my husband on shorter rides (15-25 miles) my average tends to be between 15.5 and 16. What's surprised me is that it's creeped up, even after moving to a house where every ride ends with a 10-15% grade climb. But, when I ride longer distances, I go slower. Perhaps this is self defeating, but I am riding for fitness and fun, not just speed. I also ride with people who tend to average around 13-14. That's fine with me, especially, if it's after a day that i have done a harder ride. So my average goes down. If you look at my Bike Journal stats, it will probably say my average is 14.7 for the year, a result of this type of riding.
The club rides I lead are advertised as intermediate; the average tends to be around 14. Sometimes there are slower people and they are fine. We just wait at the tops of the climbs for them. This is social riding, not hammering. I finally found a group ride where I can keep up and even be in the front. The average is around 15. I usually drop almost everyone except the leader on the hills, but I am a slow descender, so I lose there.
So, unless you have a need for more speed right now, give it time and a little work and you will improve.

[maillotpois]

There's always going to be someone who's faster than you.

There's always going to be someone who's slower than you.

;)

[Flatlander]

You all may be comparing apples to oranges too. Fess up - some people when they talk about their "average speed" may not be talking about what shows up on the cycle computer, but what they see the most when they look down on the flats.

If you are going purely by what the computer shows, where you ride will make a big difference in what your average speed is. How many times you have to stop for lights and stop signs or slow for traffic, how hilly, flat, windy, whether you ride solo or in a group will all make a difference in your average speed, but not really compare how strong you are to another person unless they have done the identical ride.


This is useful information. My computer reads 12 mph for my average, but that'swith hills, wind, stop signs, etc. WHen I look down on the flats, going steady at a comfortable pace, I think I'm averaging more like 14-16 or so...

I keep reading the posts about average speed and they make me feel really slow..

[Bad JuJu]

There's always going to be someone who's faster than you.

There's always going to be someone who's slower than you.

;)

And if you're as fortunate as Goldilocks was, you might find someone to ride with who's "just right." :D

[Fredwina]

When I started cycling, I picked up by Greg LeMond. He urged people to train by time, not by mileage. I found this really does help.(i,e, doing an hour ride versus going out for 15 miles)
Speed: maillotpois hit it on the head. I think some people (form past experience in real life) associate max speed with average speed.
An example. Today I did Glendora Mountain Road with Warren. I averaged 12.9, so that means I'm slower than you , right? Going up (there's about 2500 feet of climbing in 6 miles), I was averaging about 6.5mph. Better than my last time up. Going down, I doing around 35(Getting better at hairpin turns). We going to come through La Verne(An LA suburb), but they were having a parade, so we wound up in Pomona (a less "desirable" city, if you get my drift), We were doing about 20mph through there since it was fairly flat .
Unless you're racing, the only person you really need to compare yourself against is yourself. Sounds like you're doing fine

[Geonz]

The ride leader who is resonsible for an awful lot of my enjoyment and strength and endurance says "There will always be someone older AND faster than you."

That "what's average" thing works both ways, too. If you're going on a ride and they say, "oh, we only average about 14," they're sort of referring to the average at the end... or what they were averaging in March... so most of the time out on the road, they're going 17 or 18 - but since they already dropped you, they don't notice.

[Nanci]

I'm going to start using my max speed for my average now, then, if that's allowable. My speed is 49.1mph! ;-)

Nanci

[DrBee]

I agree with lots of the comments here. Your average speed shouldn't matter too much. Wind, hills, stop signs, etc. all affect average speed. As long as you're enjoying yourself - have at it!

Where I ride, it is FLAT. The only "hills" are into driveways. I run into a lot of wind here (averages 10-20 mph). I ride in town in the neighborhoods where there are a lot of stop signs, so that slows me down. My computer tells me I average 15 mph, pretty much regardless of how long I ride (10 miles or 30...). As Eden said - your average pace when you're going good is usually way different from the overall average. In between stop signs and on the long straight sections (I ride on the periphery of town for part of my loop), I average anywhere from 16-20, depending on how I'm feeling). So, my point is that there is a lot of variability within a ride. And as long as you're enjoying yourself, there's not much to be gained to compare yourself to others. As MP said - some are faster, some are slower than you. Have fun!

[ladyjai]

like eden said, I see 2 types of average speeds mentioned here. I suspect our gal Eclectic is talking about the average for the entire ride duration. that counts hill climbing, and slowing for lights/stopsigns, crazy drivers etc. That also means on flats, she's probably pedaling at 16-20mph. that's mighty fine to me!

I admit, I use average as compared to myself to see how I'm doing. but that said....

last fall I lived on the east side of work. I had a downhill commute to work that was very straight, and if I had a nice fast speed, I could miss the majority of lights, allowing me to have some phenomenal averages. also, I've discovered that when there's winds, they come from the east in the mornings and from the west in the evenings. a benefit if you live on the east side.

Now, I've moved, my route is different, and when I'm going south, it's downhill(slightly) and when I'm going west in the am, it's headwind (not now, the high summer killed the winds). my speeds dropped - or did they? more lights which I have to stop for make for an average killer. on your routes, do you have hills? yup, they kill total averages.

so, you can be a good rider, able to sprint up above 22 on flats and have an average of 14-15. It depends on alot of elements. it's hard what folks say about averages. I know when i talk about them, i refer to the entire ride, not the speed i can ride at on flats without headwinds :p

And it doesn't really matter if i think pedaling at 10 is slow. it doesn't matter if i pedal at 16, 18, 20 or even 25! nor if V does, or any other gal here. it really comes back to you the rider.

When you ride, do you enjoy yourself? Do you feel like you are exerting enough energy to satisfy the endorphin addiction? Are you enjoying the scenery as much (or not as much) as you would desire to? are you keeping up with the people you'd really rather keep up with? Hammer heads are notorious for being, well, hammerheads. there's not a ton of chatter. and many of the recreational speeds lead to the best conversations. but then, maybe you're a racer at heart, and that ammonia burning smell in your nose just sends you into cyclist heaven. or maybe going slow enough to notice that absolutely phenomenal sunset. I don't know. the truth is, cycling needs to be about you and what you want. As soon as you make it about being as good as, or better than or whatever, you'll lose the joy you get from it.

(please note, this is different from having "rabbits" to inspire you to push a little more to get better, or as inspiration to tackle things you never thought you could do before. )

[Pedal Wench]

I rode with a guy who was so worried about his average that he would go flying up to a stop and then slam on his brakes, instead of slowing down gradually, like the rest of us. Drove me bonkers!

[eclectic]

Thanks everyone! I am feeling much better. And I think there is truth to statement that with time and more riding I will get stronger. Once again patience is the key.

I do believe in riding just for the sake of the love of riding but then I get into the “mob” mentality on group rides or when riding with someone stronger than me and I don’t stop to take into account the variables. (the last gal I rode with was great and patient - she is a tri-athlete and trains 3-4 hours a day - HELLO of course she is going to ride stronger)

I liked the list re the rider categorization - it would really clarify some of the rides if we used it. . . I think I'll introduce it

Thanks again for the perspective readjustment

eclectic

PS I do take the average from when I leave home until I arrive back home - If I took my fastest time it would be 40.5 whoo hoo :D

[Brina]

I know, I was sitting here at the computer at 7:10 AM, with sweat running down my back. Sitting here! What's that about? I'm grateful today's not a "run" day on my training schedule.

It was a run day on my schedule. And a long run - well, long for me, my weekly 5 mile. I ran it about 6 minutes slower than usual. I couldn't stop dripping the whole run. yyyeecccchhhhh.

[Lenusik]

There's always going to be someone who's faster than you.
There's always going to be someone who's slower than you.
;)

Sorry girls, but 13-15 mph sounds really slow to me. I was riding faster on the first days of my ride. And I am not a racer by any means. And sometimes a have bad days. But if you don't push yourself, you will not get faster. If I cannot average (including hills) 18-20 mph - I know I am having a bad day. My normal spead to hold is 20 - 23 mph. I can hold 25 - 27 for a couple of miles when I push. My fasters spring on flats so far is 34 mph. Speed during climbs depends on the hill grade: from 8mph all the way to 17mph.

But the quote is right: there is always someone faster or slower. Do whatever feels right.

[caligurl]

Sorry girls, but 13-15 mph sounds really slow to me.

well then i'm pretty damned slow.... cuz my average speeds are normally 14-15 at the end of a ride (that's on the computer... what it averages it out to.... my average speed for they year so far for all my rides: 13.6 mph (total elevation gain for the year so far: 201,316)

EVERYONE has their OWN personal average speed

i found you comment just a little harsh considering a lot of people on this board... including me... have already stated they ride in that range or slower http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/148.gif

[Lenusik]

Then please read my last sentence.

[Lenusik]

i found you comment just a little harsh considering a lot of people on this board... including me... have already stated they ride in that range or slower http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/148.gif

I realize that it may have sounded harsh TO YOU. But I thought that the ladies on this board were asked for an opinion. I tend to share my opinion honestly. Again, I indicated that I ride faster than 13 mph. If it is that hard to take, then why having an open discussion board with freedom to share opinions. I am much slower than my husband and it only motivates me to work harder. I did not mean to upset you. I hope you read my last note saying that people should do what they feel is right for them. Then someone's "harsh" opinion wouldn't matter.

[Bike Goddess]

Eclectic AND Lenusik:

Here's my cut on this whole issue:

Sunday I did a ride that was 45.51 miles with 5500 feet elevation gain. My average speed for that ride was 11.2 mph. Lots of steep climbs and many steep hills to descend with nasty hairpin turns, traffic, and other slower cyclists to pass (if you could do so safely).

Yesterday I did a ride that was 63.68 miles with 3700 feet elevation gain. My average for that ride was 14.5 mph. The hills aren't as steep, and the descents are pretty straight which means "let er rip". In fact, on two of the descents (about 3+ miles each) I chased people down.

Out here in Northern CA and the Northwest we don't have the humidity and overbearing heat that some of you do elsewhere. We just have lots of hills. I would suggest that you find out the AVERAGE ELEVATION GAIN on your rides to give you a better idea of comparing mphs. Also, some days you'll be faster than others- how you feel, the weather, temps, etc all make a big difference.

The 2 days I give as examples had temps from 60- 85 degrees and nice SW winds to keep us cool. BIG DIFFERENCE! If it had been warmer, my speeds would have been slower.

[tprevost]

I've got to say that comments like that make me personally feel really bad about my riding. I enjoy it and am trying to improve but I am not fast and I know that a lot of people are faster than I am; however, I would much rather have someone say 'great job' for my little improvements rather than make me feel badly because I didn't start out being faster than most.

So Lenusik, you clearly have a natural talent and that's fabulous; but I would rather hear encouraging rather than discouraging comments.... or maybe some tips if someone wanted to try something new.

Thanks,

Tracy

[Lenusik]

Nancy,

Thanks for the nice reply. I live in Phoenix and it is REALLy hot here. I just had to adjust to the heat. If I go early enough it is still around 88 - 90 F. Elevation here varies quite a bit. We have a lot of so-called rolly-pollies. If I get out in the afternoon when it is 110F outside, I am bonk in 5 miles and will not be able to go faster than 14 mph. But I don't want to take these days in consideration. I just want to work harder and go faster. I realize that I will never be faster than some other riders who I know, but it does not mean that I will not push myself.
Thanks again.

[tprevost]

Lenusik,

There is a difference between voicing an opinion and putting other people down. I know that sometimes the way things come across on the boards are not read in the tone in which they are written but I too felt your comments basically said that slower riders are losers. Giving an opinion can be done truthfully without being hurtful.

T~

[KSH]

What does it matter how fast you go compared to rest of us.

Speed is relative.

It sounds like you can keep up with groups, and ride the distances you want. So, your speed is just fine.

For each person, how fast they want/need to go is different.

I average 15-16 mph on 20 mile to 80 mile rides. This pace can sometimes be slow as I get dropped by some groups. Whereas, it is just right for other groups I ride with.

[SadieKate]

I think one can only comment about another's speed in only 2 cases: 1) a race in which they have the results of the racer's peers for comparison, and 2) if s/he knows firsthand the person's age, weight, bike type, general fitness, bike skills, terrain, distance, solo or pack, pavement quality, temperative, humidity, wind, heath issues and probably a multitide of other things - including the goal of that day's ride.

Look around you at your fellow riders (not forum members unless they also ride with you) if you wish to make a comparison. Then, go ride your ride.

Editing because I keep thinking of things that affect speed.

Also, be sure you compare door to door average speed, not "cruising speed"

[Lenusik]

So Lenusik, you clearly have a natural talent and that's fabulous; but I would rather hear encouraging rather than discouraging comments.... or maybe some tips if someone wanted to try something new.
Tracy

Tracy, I do not have any natuarl talents. Those who do participate in races, etc. I did not mean to discourage anyone, and there is no harm in knowing that you can ride much faster. How can somoene get better if he/she believes that the limit has been reached? E.G. I don't want to play tennis with someone who I constantly beat, unless I am teaching this person. I want to be beaten and learn from it, get better! But, again, I cannot push anyone, this is not my role. People create thier own path. It does not matter to me how fast or slow people ride, as long as they ride. To me it all that matters.

[tprevost]

L~

I am sure your initial post was not meant to be discouraging, just please remember that we on this end cannot see your expression nor "read" your intent into your post. And you must have some natural talent over there because clearly you are doing a great job with your cycling and are continuing to improve ;)

T~

[jobob]

Sorry girls, but 13-15 mph sounds really slow to me..

Well then hon, I'm really slow to you. :rolleyes:

[eclectic]

Sorry girls, but 13-15 mph sounds really slow to me. I was riding faster on the first days of my ride. And I am not a racer by any means. And sometimes a have bad days. But if you don't push yourself, you will not get faster. If I cannot average (including hills) 18-20 mph - I know I am having a bad day. My normal spead to hold is 20 - 23 mph. I can hold 25 - 27 for a couple of miles when I push. My fasters spring on flats so far is 34 mph. Speed during climbs depends on the hill grade: from 8mph all the way to 17mph.

But the quote is right: there is always someone faster or slower. Do whatever feels right.

Interesting post.
But not very encouraging, more guilt inducing even with the addendum at the end

BUT I have been processing, trying to put things back into perspective and thinking of the variables.

A. Age
B. Any health concerns other than weight or physical fitness
C. Type of bike
D. Physical conditioning level going into the first ride
E. Topography - hills are not all equal (grade and length)
F. Weather conditions (7mph wind vs 15 or 20 mph wind)

I did a search on our local forum to see what the Tuesday night hammerheads were averaging. Their May 30 ride was an average speed of 18.5 over 31.27 miles. They ride in a very close pace line.
Their June 21st ride was about 14 mph for the first 15 miles and 30 mph for the last 15, (They turned around - 25 mph wind that day)

Now I can’t belive these guys are all weenies, but according to Lenusik she could smoke them.

One of our better riders completed Ride the Rockies in CO a couple of weeks ago. As we were all WOWing and asking him about the climbs and types of riders on the tour he said there were all types of bikes and levels of riders, some rode all the climbs and some had to walk. The most interesting statement he made was “ We ride against the North Dakota wind, that is great training for mountain climbs”

A statement made by many cross country cyclists ( We are one of the main stops on the adventure cycling northern route) “I’ll take the Rockies any time over a prairie head wind - you know the climb is going to end and then it is downhill for awhile, wind never ends.

Another couple who went through last week said their toughest 20 miles to date was in North Dakota

Thanks for listening, things are back into perspective for awhile

And Lenusik this was not meant to sound harsh - I would love to know some of your techniques, training, equipment, whatever, that help you achieve those kind of speeds.

BTW One thing I would like to get going here is a once a week hammer ride for slower riders. I have talked to some of the guys about helping us out and teaching us the techniques. I believe it would help overall strength and conditioning. And I would WAY RATHER ride my bike outside even against the wind than do an indoor class of any type

AND I still believe -

[Eden]

And I am not a racer by any means. And sometimes a have bad days. .

hmmm... if you really can do what you say below, perhaps you should think about trying it.



If I cannot average (including hills) 18-20 mph - I know I am having a bad day. My normal spead to hold is 20 - 23 mph. I can hold 25 - 27 for a couple of miles when I push. My fasters spring on flats so far is 34 mph. Speed during climbs depends on the hill grade: from 8mph all the way to 17mph.

[pikato]

I realize that I will never be faster than some other riders who I know, but it does not mean that I will not push myself.
Thanks again.

I agree that pushing yourself is a great thing to do, but at the same time for a lot of people, just getting on the bike is pushing themselves. I lost 48 pounds before I'd even allow myself to walk into a LBS to look at bikes, because I was afraid of what others would think.

My first group ride I did an an average of 14.8 mph & was told by some of the 'A' group riders(who I kept up with for 1/2 way through the 40 mile ride) that I kicked arse for my first time out. I plan on increasing speed in the future, but right now my focus is more on distance, than on speed.

Just please remember that different people push themselves in different ways.

[DrBee]

Well then hon, I'm really slow to you. :rolleyes:

Seems like just about all of us are "slow".

As has been said, Lenusik, it might be best to try not to insult most people on this forum. Yes, this is a place for open discussion. However, we usually try to be supportive or at least consider how our statements affect others. There's nothing wrong with being direct and honest (I am that way myself), but there are nicer ways to do it without putting off everyone else. You did add a nice statement at the end, but that doesn't negate how you started.

I agree with Eden - you seem to have natural talent and might consider entering a race.

[HappyAnika]

I live in one of the fittest counties in the nation, so when I see a very heavy person out jogging, my first thought is surprise, then my second thought is "Good for them, they are out trying to get some exercise and improve their quality of life".

Good for all of us, we are all out there riding (no matter the distance or speed), having fun and enjoying cycling for the exercise, the camaraderie , the scenery, etc.

Another thing I wanted to mention regarding averages on the computer, stop signs and traffic lights slow you down, but so can drinking (I'm no good at pedaling while reaching for my bottle and drinking), waiting for fellow riders who got caught at the light, slowing way down to find that coffee shop you looked up on google, the list goes on. When I ride home from work (20 mi.) I ride hard on the highway and into my town, but once I get into my neighborhood I slow way down to start cooling down, and to watch for children, squirrels, and cars pulling into the street who never look behind them first :eek: . Sometimes I'll note my average before I slow down and the difference between that and what my cyclometer says in my driveway can be really significant. Sometimes I'll focus on speed for shorter rides, but when I'm riding for distance I don't even care about speed. It all depends on what your goals are. And if your only goal is riding for fun then just try to have fun!

[Brandy]

Good points Happy Anika. My average improved today moving off of the bike path and onto the road. Even with all of the stopping we had to do at stoplights, it doesn't compare to the slowing that you have to do on a beach path...especially this time of year! It seems that there are many factors that go into calculating average speed. I'm just happy to be out riding!

[Lenusik]

Interesting post.
And Lenusik this was not meant to sound harsh - I would love to know some of your techniques, training, equipment, whatever, that help you achieve those kind of speeds.
BTW One thing I would like to get going here is a once a week hammer ride for slower riders. I have talked to some of the guys about helping us out and teaching us the techniques. I believe it would help overall strength and conditioning. And I would WAY RATHER ride my bike outside even against the wind than do an indoor class of any type
AND I still believe -
I do not conisder anything to be harsh as long as it is true. If you want to know my technique, there is really nothing special about it. I eat right and ride frequently. The main thing is to periodically change what you do. One day, do a shorter ride: 20-25 miles and do sprint intevals. Another day do a long ride and maintain constant speed. As we learn here, this spead is different for everybody. Then devote your day to hill climbing. I strongly believe that it is better to ride with someone else who is faster and can motivate your by dropping you on the way. That's why I ride with my husband and with a group. I can already keep up with them on flats, but not on the hills yet.

I wanted to send a link to you with the results from Tour de Phoenix in April 2006 for 26 miles including a good 4 mile climb. http://www.pbaa.com/!ETP/p26m-06.htm
This includes men and women, not professionals, but simple average riders. Those who beleive that they are a little better enter the 74 mile competition. Please check the average speed of the first 24 riders. This is a pretty standandard goal that an average rider may want to consider. This is not my opinion, just the stats. But again, what you do is your own personal choice and we all have our own motivations.
I beleive that I am the only person who can discourage myself or put myself down. I've done that and I prefer to think differently. If I offended anyone, my appologies.

[caligurl]

I do not conisder anything to be harsh as long as it is true.

geez.... you have a LOT to learn about communcating! the truth CAN be harsh... there are nicer ways to put things... like in your post.. if you had left out the first 3 or 4 sentences... i don't think anyone would jump on you..

so if you ask your husband "honey, does this make me look fat?" and he tells you "it makes you look like a freaking cow" and it's the truth... you don't think that's harsh... compared to say... perhaps... "well..... i like this other outfit better" or even "it's not the most flattering outfit you've worn"....

it's all in communicating skills...

out of curiosity... is english your second language? perhaps there where the problem lies? maybe they are more blunt in the ukraine??? *shrugs*

[FreshNewbie]

Electric,

I will agree with the ladies who said that average speed involves many variables. I know it's hard not to compare yourself to other riders, but if you want to continue enjoy the sport you should only compare yourself to your own results. There are always someone faster than you, and at some point it will get too frustrating to not be able to catch that "rabbit". I think it takes some people less effort to improve their speed than others, and you might need a little more time, but if you put determination and chase it down with love for sport then you will get there. When I see someone in the street who is overweight but he/she is biking, running, etc it puts a smile on my face. Like someone said before, "pushing" is different for everybody. Experiment on different things: diet pre/post rides, different types of training, change of scenery and you might get better results. However, I must say that there are so many different women on this board, and everyone has their own opinion, and if they are asked they will voice it. Unfortunately, we don't see their facial expressions and emotions so it's hard to say if they meant their comment to be harsh or not. We are all in the same sport, some people willtry to encourage you and comment on your results, others feel that "encouraging" is not about only looking at a positive side of the story....
In the end you are out riding, doing it, enjoying and wanting to improve and that's awsome in my book

[Lenusik]

out of curiosity... is english your second language? perhaps there where the problem lies? maybe they are more blunt in the ukraine??? *shrugs*
Whatever you wish to think.
Have fun everybody and keep enjoying this wonderful sport.

[SadieKate]

I may use the ignore function for the very first time.

El Tour of Phoenix is a timed event, not the every day ride the average rider is using for stats.

These avg speeds do not include warm up, cool down, or the normal traffic and physical obtacles that slow most of us in our ordinary rides.

Drafting of other riders is not prohibited so we must assume there is drafting.

Terrain - Phoenix is FLAT. I travel there several times a year. It is the same type terrain I ride on. FLAT. You cannot assume the speeds in your area are typical for other areas.

24 miles is very short distance compared to some rides (say 100 miles, 200k or 200 miles).

Where in that list does it show the riders' weight, fitness, skills, health conditions, wind resistance, etc.?

13.5 mph is pretty much right smack in the middle of a list that is all ages and both genders. There is not true peer comparison in this list.

Lenusik, I realize you are trying to provide encouragement but your lack of perception about the variables is really detrimental.

[Lenusik]

ITerrain - Phoenix is FLAT. I travel there several times a year. It is the same type terrain I ride on. FLAT. You cannot assume the speeds in your area are typical for other areas.
.
http://www.hlhap.com/azroadclimbs.html

[DrBee]

Well said SK - on all accounts!

[FreshNewbie]

I personally don't see how this sort of reply : "out of curiosity... is english your second language? perhaps there where the problem lies? maybe they are more blunt in the ukraine??? *shrugs* " is better than anything that Linusik posted in her replies. I am not going to take anyone's side on this post because I think it's pointless to argue about this without having all the variables we mentioned before. But personally I don't think that the above comment was any better? - attack is the best deffense? and do we need to defend? Why make this post into something it was not meant to be...

[caligurl]

i didn't mean to attack her... ... i was just trying to justify her bluntness... saying that perhaps what she really meant to say wasn't translating well? that perhaps there is a language barrier? thus the bluntness... harshness....

[Lenusik]

I personally don't see how this sort of reply : "out of curiosity... is english your second language? perhaps there where the problem lies? maybe they are more blunt in the ukraine??? *shrugs* " is better than anything that Linusik posted in her replies.
Thank you. It is hard for people to agree with the reality. People don't think that I take any conditions into consideration. All I give is averages for anyone in any situation. But different things work for different people. As I said, there was no plan to offend any one. Thanks.

[DeniseGoldberg]

I've been trying to ignore parts of this conversation but I want to make sure that (particularly) new cyclists aren't discouraged by the stats that Lenusik keeps quoting.

I really believe that the important thing here is that we are all riding, and we are riding because we enjoy it, regardless of speed.

There are racers who participate in this forum, and I know that they are very cognizant of (and trying to improve) their speed. There are non-racers too who are working to improve their speed, and there are others of us who just want to ride. I'm not a fast rider, and I never have been. My body seems to like the speed it goes, and that speed happens to be slower than many other riders. In fact, I'm one of the people who occasionally rides with Robyn where (as she said in her post last week) she knows she won't be riding her max speed on those rides. And she's fine with it - if she wants to ride at a higher rate of speed then that's not a good day for us to ride together. I believe that works for both of us.

On the other hand, while I'm not put together for speed, I am very happy riding long distances. Touring, being on my own on a bike exploring new territory, playing with my camera - all make me very happy. And when I'm touring, I'm going at an even slower pace than normal because I'm either hauling a trailer or I have loaded panniers on my bike.

What I think it really important is that we each continue to use our bikes to meet our own goals, to add something good to our lives, to enjoy our own version of cycling. That might include riding at a faster pace, but it might not.

Have fun on your bikes!

--- Denise

[Lenusik]

i didn't mean to attack her... ... i was just trying to justify her bluntness... saying that perhaps what she really meant to say wasn't translating well? that perhaps there is a language barrier? thus the bluntness... harshness....
I was a straight "A" student. :)

[FreshNewbie]

Well, now we see that not everything that we post is interpreted the way we want to, no matter what your first language is.

[SadieKate]

Yep, flat like Davis. Flat, flat, flat, oh gosh, more flat, thank goodness a hill to break up the monotony, darn, back to the flat. The girls in the California Bay Area, the Sierra Nevada, the Cascades and the Rockies are all scratching their heads. Let's talk 5-20 mile long climbs and then a repeat.

And, those speeds were still from a very short race.

I am so tired of these constant comparisons of speed when we don't know the variables for each person. It's like asking "are my eyes bluer than yours" without having a picture or a judge that has seen both pairs of eyes. It's ridiculous. If you want to know how fast you are, ride with someone you consider a peer on a familiar route. Sorry to everyone. I'm getting a bit wound up over this one. I don't want anyone to be discouraged through lack of understanding about comparisons of average speeds.

[Geonz]

There are people in bike clubs who sincerely and earnestly have Lenusik's attitude (also in academia) They "don't have any special talents" - (but they're straight A students, etc...) so if other people would just TRY HARDER they could all be better, and what's with all the excuses??? They just need to push themselves~ we can only know what's been in our universe.

It is a good thing to see this discussion and see that this is how their minds work... and if it's foreign and doesn't make sense... then when somebody talks like that at a ride, you know that person is coming from such a different perspective than yours and to put "discouragement shields" up. Or... get angry and use that for motivation.

Hard to tell when we need encouragement and when we need that kick in the rear - but it's the KITA at the wrong time that does more harm than the other way around.

[KnottedYet]

Woo-hooo! My average is the slowest! 10.9 mph!!!

(do I get a prize?)

I can't wait to do my first triathlon next month: in my miniskirt with my bike seat with springs under the butt and upright bars with a dingy-bell and fenders and a big ol' grin on my face!

Have fun, everyone, cuz we'll all be dead someday!

But (say it with me now) we're NOT DEAD YET!!!!:D

-KnottedYet

[Lenusik]

Have fun, everyone, cuz we'll all be dead someday!

But (say it with me now) we're NOT DEAD YET!!!!:D

-KnottedYet
I love that! Thanks for riding!

[DrBee]

Like Denise said - your body will let you know what speed is good for you. Some days you might want to go faster, other days you might want to take it easy. If you want to improve your overall speed, whatever that may be, then set that goal and work towards it. The more you ride, the better chance you may have to improve speed. However, you might be riding at your optimum speed now. It just depends. Riding should be fun. This discussion has quickly degraded into something not very fun. Please don't be discouraged by those who will tell you that you are slow. That is unproductive and unnecessary. Just be happy to ride and if you want to try to improve your speed for you, then I wish you luck.

[Grog]

I am so tired of these constant comparisons of speed when we don't know the variables for each person. It's like asking "are my eyes bluer than yours" without having a picture or a judge that has seen both pairs of eyes. It's ridiculous. If you want to know how fast you are, ride with someone you consider a peer on a familiar route. Sorry to everyone. I'm getting a bit wound up over this one. I don't want anyone to be discouraged through lack of understanding about comparisons of average speeds.

Thanks SK for speaking my mind very clearly.

I think all those discussions about speed are totally useless.

[Fredwina]

Yep,I am so tired of these constant comparisons of speed when we don't know the variables for each person. It's like asking "are my eyes bluer than yours" without having a picture or a judge that has seen both pairs of eyes. It's ridiculous. If you want to know how fast you are, ride with someone you consider a peer on a familiar route. Sorry to everyone. I'm getting a bit wound up over this one. I don't want anyone to be discouraged through lack of understanding about comparisons of average speeds.
Amen, Sister! ...One of the reasons I don't post my average speeds or distance in my daily ride post.

[KSH]

There are people in bike clubs who sincerely and earnestly have Lenusik's attitude (also in academia) They "don't have any special talents" - (but they're straight A students, etc...) so if other people would just TRY HARDER they could all be better, and what's with all the excuses??? They just need to push themselves~ we can only know what's been in our universe.


HA! HA! "Keep riding and you will be as fast me someday!"

Yea, unfortunately... there are genetic barriers involved in our speeds... and how much faster we can get... I do believe.

I could ride 7 days a week, and I know I would never get very fast (aka: 22-25 mph average). I'm not sure what my top speed will ever be, but after 1.5 years on my bike, the fastest I have ever gone is a 17 mph average. But, most days, I hang around 15-16 mph.

I can only DREAM of breaking the 17 mph barrier!

The fact is... is that some people have natural ability... some do not. If we all had the same abilities... everyone would be riding the same speed!

For me, I don't have the natural ability. All I have is the ability to be perfectly mediocre. And that allows me to ride with groups and makes me happy!

[Nanci]

You can't stop participating in a sport because there are professional-level people who can obliterate you at it. A sport is about a lifestyle, about health and fitness and happiness, and you want to try hard, of course, you want to do your best, but you'll have to accept that other people's best will
frequently be better than yours.

Mike Magnuson, Heft On Wheels

(Nanci, who faces this acceptance on each and every ride)

[mimitabby]

you know, I have a great worksman bicycle at my office. It is a huge thing, it weighs 40 pounds. After zipping around town on my little cross or roadbike, it is a humbling experience to hop on to this rather newish bike and ride just as fast as i can (on the flats here at work) and MAYBE get up to 10 miles an hour. What's more, I'd like to see anyone else do 15 mph on the flats on a bike like this.
having said this, I must add that I can do a lot better on a lightweight bike.
So if you are the owner of a comfort cruiser, Do not expect to go really fast no matter how fit you are, because the sheer weight of the bike is going to slow you down.
Your speed on a bike has a lot to do with the bike itself.
Take a look at the kinds of bikes they are riding in the Tour de France.
Those bikes weigh about 1/2 of what most of our road bikes weigh; and they are even built differently, different geometry and stuff.
One of the reason that they can sell those really expensive bikes is because they do add to your speed.
So worry about YOUR speed, not someone else's. but even that is subject to so many variables. Try to beat your own records, but if the wind is going in a different direction, even if you worked twice as hard as you did the last time, you still might not be any faster.

The biggest bummer about speed is that it limits who you can ride with. If you have a friend that averages 15 mph and you only average 12 mph, it won't be any fun riding with them; either they will be falling asleep waiting for you to catch up or you will be working TOO hard to have fun... or both.

if you are riding to get fit, don't compare yourself to anyone else. Just imagine me on my worksman bike trying to go fast.
:)

[Flatlander]

An interesting thread. I was worried about my average speed, too, when I kept reading what others have posted. But, as I began to think about this conversation, I realized that the truth is, as a newish rider, I don't really pay too much attention to the "speed" I'm going. In fact, I more often have my computer set to cadence. That way, I ride by feel rather than some arbitrary number that may have nothing to do with road/weather/fatigue/whatever conditions. And just because I'm riding by feel, it doesn't mean that I'm not pushing myself on a given day.

While I am aiming for general improvement, I'm really more interested in enjoying my life than besting the other person. As has been stated, there will ALWAYS be somone faster than me, so why worry about what *they* can do? Why not just worry about what I can do? Seems like that's plenty enough to make me happy.

For what it's worth.

[SadieKate]

. . . I'm really more interested in enjoying my life than besting the other person.Most excellent words and worth a lot. :)

[Eden]

HA! HA! "Keep riding and you will be as fast me someday!"

Yea, unfortunately... there are genetic barriers involved in our speeds... and how much faster we can get... I do believe.

I could ride 7 days a week, and I know I would never get very fast (aka: 22-25 mph average). I'm not sure what my top speed will ever be, but after 1.5 years on my bike, the fastest I have ever gone is a 17 mph average. But, most days, I hang around 15-16 mph.

I can only DREAM of breaking the 17 mph barrier!

The fact is... is that some people have natural ability... some do not. If we all had the same abilities... everyone would be riding the same speed!

For me, I don't have the natural ability. All I have is the ability to be perfectly mediocre. And that allows me to ride with groups and makes me happy!

And discussions like this program us all to think that we are slow. I used to think that I was very slow. If I went by my average training ride speeds, I probably would still be sitting around believing it. (btw KSH - you don't sound too mediocre to me!)

Look gals unless it's a race, IT'S NOT A RACE. If it is a race it may not always be the fastest person who wins, but the one who rides the smartest. It's good to have goals and its fine to want to improve your speed, but comparing your average speed to other peoples is likely to not bring you any happiness. I can see why people on other bike forums usually shut this topic down pretty quick when it comes up. There is no real point to making the comparison if you aren't doing the same ride in the same conditions.

If you want to use average speed - compare yourself to yourself on a course you ride often. Be kind to yourself - one day of slower speed doesn't mean your slipping - maybe it was windier, maybe you were hungry or tired. It's like getting on the scale every morning - look for trends, rather than what happens each individual day.

[Grog]

For me, I don't have the natural ability. All I have is the ability to be perfectly mediocre. And that allows me to ride with groups and makes me happy!

Wwwooooh, wait a minute dear.

I generally agree with your post, but I strongly refuse to think of you as "mediocre". (There is definitely an ironic spin to your post and I'm sure that's not what you think, but I still need to clarify.)

A trainer I worked with along with other members of my club, who also works with elite and professional athletes, kept telling us that we were all athletes - no matter at what level - and in any case close to the peak of the fitness pyramid in the general population. About 1% of the population participates in triathlon, and probably not a lot more than 10% of the population is capable of running 5-10 km continuously or cycle for more than 30 km. So please don't say you are mediocre. Perhaps you would seem relatively out of place if dropped inadvertently in the middle of the world championships. But even then you wouldn't be mediocre. Do not put yourself down like this, it's absolutely not founded.

Besides that, yes, genetics do play a part. For example, it's proven unfortunately that no matter how much they train about 1/3 of the population will not significantly increase their respiratory capacity... which doesn't prevent them from having fun and reaping other health benefits from exercising.

However, there is also a strong social, personal and familial component. My dear partner, to take only one example of someone I don't even dream of passing on a hill (unless he has a broken leg... and even then...) has been involved in sports since he was a very young child and never stopped cycling, running and swimming, all his life. He didn't come in first, but he certainly wasn't out of place at the abovementioned world championship when he went there. He has good genes, perhaps, but above all he had a lot of encouragement as a child, a lot of experience, a lot of training, and he's built over the years an amazing machine of a body. That serves him well. (Hummm, serves me well too, but that's another matter. :rolleyes: ) I, on the other hand, while never sedentary, never was into any sport, but chose politics and volunteer work instead. Without offence to my parents, I may not have the most athletic set of genes, either. I have now added cycling (and some running) to my life, but not at the expense of other activities I love and find meaningful. So of course I'm not improving as much as much as I would if I would put cycling first. So what? That doesn't make me mediocre.

[KSH]

And discussions like this program us all to think that we are slow. I used to think that I was very slow. If I went by my average training ride speeds, I probably would still be sitting around believing it. (btw KSH - you don't sound like you are particularly slow)


Well, it all depends WHO I ride with. As I posted before, speed is relative.

If I ride with my triathlon group, it's ALWAYS a race for them... and I get dropped. When I ride with them, I am slow. Even the people who just bought their bikes a week before keep up or pass me. It's sad.

Whereas if I ride with my cycling club, there are riders who are my speed and I have a group to ride with. So, when I ride with this group, I am perfectly mediocre- average.

Overall though, I never pay attention to my speed or my average on a ride. I focus on my cadence (90-100) and shift according to that reading.


I generally agree with your post, but I strongly refuse to think of you as "mediocre". (There is definitely an ironic spin to your post and I'm sure that's not what you think, but I still need to clarify.)


Mediocre:

1: moderate to inferior in quality;
2: of no exceptional quality or ability.

I appreciate the kind words... I really do! And trust me, I'm don't pity myself and I'm not trying to put myself down. I'm just being honest. Also keep in mind that I compare myself to the people who train/compete in triathlons with me... not to the person who never exercises.

Now... I have FUN doing what I do. Sure, I could train a few more hours a week, maybe not eat all the bad food I do, I could train using my heart rate, etc... and I would probably get better... but I want to have fun with all this... so I do what I feel like doing.

Otherwise, I have always been OK at everything I do. Not the worst, not the best, just somewhere in the middle.... medicore. In all my triathlon's, I am in the middle of my age group, in H.S. when I was a competitive swimmer- I was a decent swimmer who got the job done. Nothing spectacular.

That's me. And I'm perfectly OK with that. I have fun riding, swimming, and running... even if I will never come in first place.

[Nanci]

I think going too fast limits people, too. They don't have time to stop to see one of the largest oaks in Florida and take a picture of their bike by it. They don't have time to help a Three-Striped Musk Turtle across a busy road. They don't have time to watch a family of baby alligators. They don't have time to look up and down the River Styx and spot a white heron. They don't know where to find the restroom key at Tim's Fast Nickel. They don't stop for scenic group pictures along the way. All those speedy A and B riders- most of them aren't training for racing, maybe they just want to be REALLY fast for the annual Century, maybe they have to get home to do chores, maybe they just enjoy the limited field of view of the rider ahead's butt- good for them, go go go, but they are missing out on the _pleasure_ of riding a bike from one good thing to the next.

[Jones]

. My normal spead to hold is 20 - 23 mph. I can hold 25 - 27 for a couple of miles when I push. .


Lance Armstrong is a remarkable bike rider. He has/had access to all the latest technology, the best bikes, the best training, personnel trainers, etc. and almost unlimited funds to help train. Training was his full time job. He won the Tour de France 7 times with an average speed of 24.99 mph.

Lenusik if your "normal spead" is 20- 23 mph I think you could be the first woman to ride le tour.
My average speed is more in line with knotted and once, an old man walking his dog, talking on a phone beat me up a hill. But I still love to ride.

Jones.

[Grog]

I think going too fast limits people, too. They don't have time to stop to see one of the largest oaks in Florida and take a picture of their bike by it. They don't have time to help a Three-Striped Musk Turtle across a busy road. They don't have time to watch a family of baby alligators. They don't have time to look up and down the River Styx and spot a white heron. They don't know where to find the restroom key at Tim's Fast Nickel. They don't stop for scenic group pictures along the way. All those speedy A and B riders- most of them aren't training for racing, maybe they just want to be REALLY fast for the annual Century, maybe they have to get home to do chores, maybe they just enjoy the limited field of view of the rider ahead's butt- good for them, go go go, but they are missing out on the _pleasure_ of riding a bike from one good thing to the next.

Nanci, I love you. :)

This being said, I am starting to understand the other side of the story too. Dear Partner (quoted ahead as competitive triathlete) is an uphill speed junkie. He's in med school right now and has had to decide not to compete this year. You know what he misses most? "Being fit." I can't believe it (as he is extremely fit even when he claims he's not), but it's true. He gets high on feeling extremely fit, and competing is his way to make that level of fitness happen.

Riding together at a common pace is of course difficult. We've decided we'd do a long but "slow" (for him - think 25 kmh or 15 mph average - because I get quite a workout out of it) but long (again it's relative, only 100-130 km, which for you Nanci would be a shorty... ;) ) ride on hilly terrain together on the weekend, and stop for lunch, pictures, etc. He carries the camera and I have given him a pictures "quota" to fill: 5 shots an hour at least. He hits the hills hard and waits for me at the top to take a picture of my sweaty self when I eventually get there. Others could be offended by this, but I find it cute, and it entertains him while he waits for me. I let him drop me except on flats with a headwind, in which case I'll ask for his protection and ride at a happy 35 km/h + enjoying the view of his bum. Sometimes at the end of the day he'll be tired enough that I'll even get to take a few pulls.

He's also very supportive of my involvement in the sport, and loves seeing me smiling my way through every ride.

All this to say that I now understand why someone would want to go very fast, and have hard time going slow. He still struggles with the "touring" mode, but he is finding it enjoyable, he's very proud of his pictures of deers, and I'm sure he'd be happy to rescue the occasional turtle if he'd have a chance. But that didn't come spontaneously to him, he has to learn it, just as I would have to learn to work my way up faster. Who would have known ?

Eventually we'll get him a heavier touring bike and maybe a trailer with a couple of kids in it, that should slow him down. In the meantime, we can't afford any of these!!! :eek:

[maillotpois]

I wanted to send a link to you with the results from Tour de Phoenix in April 2006 for 26 miles including a good 4 mile climb. http://www.pbaa.com/!ETP/p26m-06.htm
This includes men and women, not professionals, but simple average riders. Those who beleive that they are a little better enter the 74 mile competition. Please check the average speed of the first 24 riders. This is a pretty standandard goal that an average rider may want to consider. This is not my opinion, just the stats. But again, what you do is your own personal choice and we all have our own motivations.

I regularly race the Tour de Tucson (111 - 114 miles, depening on course), which is put on by PBAA as well. I am a 3 - 4 time Platinum finisher of the race, meaning that I finished under 6 hours and now get to start in the elite section in the front of the race. My best time is 5h 35 minutes, working aggressively in pacelines and actually racing. That puts me at roughly an average speed of 20 - 22 mph. Again, this is aggressive bike racing over 113 miles, with contact and bike bumping and fast pacelines. This is the only race I actually race all year as I have a 10 year old and a full time job and do not have the time to actually race with a team.

I don't know about the Tour de Phoenix, but I can tell you that the average speed of the first 24 finishers of the Tour de Tucson is not a "standard goal" that an average cyclist can attain. Maybe the Tour de Phoenix is more casual? Or maybe I am below average, but since my finishing time at Tucson is in the top 30 - 40 (non-tandem) women, I think that is probably not the case. :)

And while my average speed on Tucson may be over 20 mph for 10 miles, I can tell you that for my local Northern CA rides, which have many more hills, my pace is what you would apparently describe as slow.

For example:

On my 600k brevet with 13,000 feet of climbing my speed was 13 mph average;
On the Davis Double, working with my husband in a pace line my speed was 17 mph, but on the Eastern Sierra double (11,000 climbing) riding on my own, my pace was 14 1/2 mph;
I did a 115 mile Death Ride training ride earlier in June, and my pace was 11 mph;

At the Death Ride last year my pace was 11.22 mph. I won't get to try to beat that time this weekend because of my pulmonary embolism, but I am hopeful that I can come back next year and post a "slow" time for that ride.

Point is - no one knows what terrain, conditions, whatever anyone is riding. Average MPH is basically worthless from one person to the next or one ride to the next - compare yourself to yourself.

Just get on your bike and ride.

[maillotpois]

Woo-hooo! My average is the slowest! 10.9 mph!!!

(do I get a prize?)

I can't wait to do my first triathlon next month: in my miniskirt with my bike seat with springs under the butt and upright bars with a dingy-bell and fenders and a big ol' grin on my face!

Have fun, everyone, cuz we'll all be dead someday!

But (say it with me now) we're NOT DEAD YET!!!!:D

-KnottedYet


Excellent! And having come closest of anyone on the forum (I hope) to death this week I say we BOTH get a prize!!!!

[caligurl]

I don't know about the Tour de Phoenix, but I can tell you that the average speed of the first 24 finishers of the Tour de Tucson is not something an average cyclist can attain.

not to mention... there were.. what???? 162 names on that list? what a small percentage the first 25 are! and look at the average speeds of the "bottom" 30 or so.... 10 or less mph! and then you have the middle ground.... the average.... of the other 100 or so people....

[caligurl]

At the Death Ride last year my pace was 11.22 mph. I won't get to try to beat that time this weekend because of my pulmonary embolism, but I am hopeful that I can come back next year and post a strong "slow" time for that ride.

Point is - no one knows what terrain, conditions, whatever anyone is riding. Just get on your bike and ride.

good luck on your ride this weekend! please be careful!!!!

everyone one of my epic rides (which of course aren't as epic as the death ride or your doubles)... have all be PROUDLY completed... but completed slowly (or rather to the best of my ability!)... but hey.... i finished! and THAT was what important to ME!

[Lise]

No riding for the MP this weekend, right? :eek:

[betagirl]

Lance Armstrong is a remarkable bike rider. He has/had access to all the latest technology, the best bikes, the best training, personnel trainers, etc. and almost unlimited funds to help train. Training was his full time job. He won the Tour de France 7 times with an average speed of 24.99 mph.

Lenusik if your "normal spead" is 20- 23 mph I think you could be the first woman to ride le tour.

Yeah, but Lance is riding over several mountain stages. I can hold 20-23 on a flat road without much problem. Put me in a mountain and I a) cry like a baby and b) drop in speed significantly. :D

[Crankin]

I haven't been on line today, but discussions like these are the reason why I don't ride with certain clubs. They are full of attitude. Thank you for the kind words, Denise. I grew up as an unathletic last person chosen type of kid. Most of the people I know now think I'm some kind of super human athlete. I am just having fun and I only compete with myself.
I just took my former exchange student to the airport to go back to Berlin. He is a PRO and competed in a grueling 4 day stage race while he was here. He came in 10th in th GC and won the green jersey for most sprinting points. And you know what? He rode with ME twice at my little speed of 15.5 average. Sure, it's his recovery day, but he said that is exactly the speed he likes for those days. He told me that I am the fittest over 40 woman he knows, especially after working in the emergency room for the last year and seeing the results of not exercising. So ladies, keep it in perspective.

Robyn

[caligurl]

Speed during climbs depends on the hill grade: from 8mph all the way to 17mph.



beta girl... according to her.... she doesn't drop her speed much on hills either though.....

i'm with you on climbs... i don't cry... lol (ok... i do whine.. but i subject myself to them anyways! i thrive on completing the epis hill climbs! lol!) but the minute i come to a hill... i slow down!.... sometimes waaaaaaaaaaaaay down (geez... at redlands i was barely moving on some of those 22-24% grades! but i never walked once! phew!)

[DrBee]

I'd probably have to walk up a hill! And I'd be proud to do it and would also enjoy the scenery at the same time. :)

[maillotpois]

No riding for the MP this weekend, right? :eek:


That's right. Looking like 6 months of no riding from what the doctor said, but we'll see. I am planning my comeback. Be warned!! :p

[maillotpois]

good luck on your ride this weekend! please be careful!!!!

everyone one of my epic rides (which of course aren't as epic as the death ride or your doubles)... have all be PROUDLY completed... but completed slowly (or rather to the best of my ability!)... but hey.... i finished! and THAT was what important to ME!


Thanks for the good wishes, Cali, but I am not riding the Death Ride or any of the other doubles I had planned for the rest of the year. Or the FC 508. :(

See: http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=7836

3 - 6 months off the bike. I had to buy trail running shoes. :mad:

[betagirl]

(geez... at redlands i was barely moving on some of those 22-24% grades! but i never walked once! phew!)

On my last brevet, I had to walk up a hill. It was an out and back, and on the climb going out I dropped into my triple and the last gear I had to try to spin up it. I barely made it. After the descent, I thought to myself "oh sh*t" to get back up that beast. I think the grade was easily 10%. Needless to say, I had some mechanical issues with all the rain and crap on the road that eventually caused me to abandon the ride at mile 108. But not before I walked up that stupid hill. It was either tip over or walk after my chain locked up on me about 1/3 of the way up. Man was my ego bruised though!

Edited: I meant 10%, not 20%.

[Nanci]

I don't believe a human can ride a 24% grade...

[dachshund]

My perspective on the original post was a thought on how to get faster, if one wanted to. It also sounds like someone made an unfortunate remark about 13 mph being slow, which as everyone has pointed out, doesn't mean diddly.

But I'm definitely interested in going faster - when I'm out by myself, strictly for personal satisfaction (or maybe to try catching some of those groups who pass me). What I'm concentrating on is form, and noting my speed on sections of my ride that I repeat all the time. Like, "hey, weren't we doing X mph last week, and now we're up to X + 1." And from what I can tell, proper form involves moving your knees up and down, and not moving anything back and forth or side to side. If this can be accomplished, then all the effort goes into moving the bike forward. And someday I'm going to ride up a HILL - I promise. :eek: I'd like to be able to do this without hurting my back... so Form is an interesting topic to me. But this sort of stuff floats my boat, and doesn't mean a thing about anyone else.

[dachshund]

I had to buy trail running shoes. :mad:

Sarah, does this mean you're feeling better? I mean, it has the word "running" in it. Does this mean you're up and around?
-Amy

[maillotpois]

Sarah, does this mean you're feeling better? I mean, it has the word "running" in it. Does this mean you're up and around?
-Amy


Thanks, Amy. I guess my clots are better, but I am actually having more pain, which stinks. I bought the shoes in anticipation of being able to run (or, actually hike quickly!) soon. Like maybe end of next week. For now, I am taking it pretty easy, though I did go intot he office today and I am going up to the Sierras this weekend to cheer on DH at the Death Ride.

[Nanci]

MP, is it a _little_ bit of a relief not to be riding something called the Death Ride??

Nanci

PS, you could train for Wickham park now!!

[maillotpois]

MP, is it a _little_ bit of a relief not to be riding something called the Death Ride??

Nanci

PS, you could train for Wickham park now!!


This is a total (probably welcome) hijack.

You know, given how crummy my last rides were (due to the stupid clots) it is a relief. I am in pretty decent shape, but boy did I struggle on my training rides. Clot-less, I think I would have been more psyched up for it.

In spite of the name, the Death Ride is a stunningly beautiful ride. The mountains are gorgeous and it is almost spiritually peaceful out there.

Wickham Park sounds crazy fun, but like something beyond my running abilities - crazy! I have done 3 marathons. The first was great. The rest were just long. And painful!

[Lise]

But I'm definitely interested in going faster.
Amy, I just had to smile at the above quote next to the picture of a dachshund. Like I'm one to talk! I pictured a doxie working on form with those 3" legs. :D

[Nanci]

Aren't you supposed to be asleep???

[dachshund]

Well, do take it easy Sarah. I was just floored by your story. Hopefully, in no time at all it will be a distant memory. Being patient sux sometimes. :(

[dachshund]

Amy, I just had to smile at the above quote next to the picture of a dachshund. Like I'm one to talk! I pictured a doxie working on form with those 3" legs. :D

That is funny! We're always saying to the dogs, "you have no legs!". Big chest, no legs. Spinning would take on a whole new look.... "Worf! Where are the cookies?"

[dachshund]

Anyway dachshunds wouldn't get anywhere on a bike. Consider what walking is like.

Walking a dachshund:
Sprint 15 feet.
Stop.
Sniff.
Pee.
Sniff.
2 minutes later.
Sprint 15 feet.
Stop.
Sniff.
Pee.
Repeat.

:D

[Tuckervill]

Riding together at a common pace is of course difficult. We've decided we'd do a long but "slow" (for him - think 25 kmh or 15 mph average - because I get quite a workout out of it) but long (again it's relative, only 100-130 km, which for you Nanci would be a shorty... ) ride on hilly terrain together on the weekend, and stop for lunch, pictures, etc. He carries the camera and I have given him a pictures "quota" to fill: 5 shots an hour at least. He hits the hills hard and waits for me at the top to take a picture of my sweaty self when I eventually get there. Others could be offended by this, but I find it cute, and it entertains him while he waits for me. I let him drop me except on flats with a headwind, in which case I'll ask for his protection and ride at a happy 35 km/h + enjoying the view of his bum. Sometimes at the end of the day he'll be tired enough that I'll even get to take a few pulls.

He's also very supportive of my involvement in the sport, and loves seeing me smiling my way through every ride.

All this to say that I now understand why someone would want to go very fast, and have hard time going slow. He still struggles with the "touring" mode, but he is finding it enjoyable, he's very proud of his pictures of deers, and I'm sure he'd be happy to rescue the occasional turtle if he'd have a chance. But that didn't come spontaneously to him, he has to learn it, just as I would have to learn to work my way up faster. Who would have known ?

This is such a wonderful description of the give and take of a good relationship. Made me say, "Awww...."

Karen

[caligurl]

Thanks for the good wishes, Cali, but I am not riding the Death Ride or any of the other doubles I had planned for the rest of the year. Or the FC 508. :(

See: http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=7836

3 - 6 months off the bike. I had to buy trail running shoes. :mad:

DUH..... what a dunce i am... i read that thread.... and i read what you wrote wrong.... i ead it that you were riding but slowly.... dunce dunce dunce! (me that is... not you!)

[caligurl]

I don't believe a human can ride a 24% grade...

not the whole thing... portions of it.... we had a discussion about the course on here before i did the ride... and folks who live in redlands who had ridden the hills on the course were quite familiar with the grades....

[Brandy]

not the whole thing... portions of it.... we had a discussion about the course on here before i did the ride... and folks who live in redlands who had ridden the hills on the course were quite familiar with the grades....

I prefer to just go on believing that you are super-human caligurl. :D

[Brandy]

I don't believe a human can ride a 24% grade...

How about 33%? :eek:

http://home.comcast.net/~wymanburke/FargoStreet.html

http://you-are-here.com/transport/street.html

[pkq]

I am so tired of these constant comparisons of speed.......

Aw, c'mon, you want to know who you are faster than. :D

This thread is too serious for the subject matter, eh?

[maillotpois]

Aw, c'mon, you want to know who you are faster than. :D



(I believe) she just wants to be faster than herself at the last TT. Respectable goal. Me, too!!! :D

[caligurl]

How about 33%? :eek:

http://home.comcast.net/~wymanburke/FargoStreet.html

http://you-are-here.com/transport/street.html

you beat me to it.... i was gonna reference fargo....

[Brandy]

you beat me to it.... i was gonna reference fargo....

Are you ever going to do it? I would drive up to cheer you on!

[caligurl]

Are you ever going to do it? I would drive up to cheer you on!

bwah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha....

uhm.... no! lol!

[tprevost]

Aw come on Caligurl, I'd come and cheer you on too!!! 8-)

T~

ps. Sarah, this may be a dumb question buy why would you be able to run but not bike at an easy pace?

[maillotpois]

Aw come on Caligurl, I'd come and cheer you on too!!! 8-)

T~

ps. Sarah, this may be a dumb question buy why would you be able to run but not bike at an easy pace?


I am on very heavy duty anti-coagulants. Any cut and I'll bleed a lot more than most. I have crashed my bike several times in the past. I ride fairly aggressively. Any crash with a head bump (even with a helmet) could cause me to bleed profusely under my skull, lowering my GPA. :cool:

It's a risk benefit thing. Sure I haven't crashed in the last year (well, since Tucson, but that wasn't my fault). But if I did crash it could be catastrophic. So, sadly, not worth it.

My (very unathletic) doctor was talking about how I could ride on a bike path at an easy pace, etc. Sorry. No offense to anyone here, but to me where I am right now, that's not riding. So I will simply do some major cross-training for the next few months....

[tprevost]

Gotcha!

T~

[SadieKate]

(I believe) she just wants to be faster than herself at the last TT. Respectable goal. Me, too!!! :Dpkq, (in my best Canadian) eh yep.:D Got a flat on tonight's TT though. Kind of hard to go fast and pump air at the same time.:mad: I was feeling sooooo good, too.

[SadieKate]

ps. Sarah, this may be a dumb question buy why would you be able to run but not bike at an easy pace?Cuz she is not to be trusted with a bike at the moment.:p

[Trekhawk]

pkq, (in my best Canadian) eh yep.:D Got a flat on tonight's TT though. Kind of hard to go fast and pump air at the same time.:mad: I was feeling sooooo good, too.

Have you upset the cycling gods. First HOT HOT weather and now a flat. Perhaps you need to make an offering. I hear that they like good looking husbands.:D

[maillotpois]

pkq, (in my best Canadian) eh yep.:D Got a flat on tonight's TT though. Kind of hard to go fast and pump air at the same time.:mad: I was feeling sooooo good, too.


Oh crabs!!!

[Nanci]

I'm changing Lava's name to Sisyphus after last Saturday. That's how I feel when I'm on a hill.

[DeniseGoldberg]

If you're thinking about your speed as compared to other riders - as opposed to your speed goals for yourself - or you're in the "I don't care how fast I ride" camp (as I am)... You might appreciate two experiences I had in the past. These were both in the days when I still did organized rides.

The first was a 2-day MS ride I did that was a century each day. One of my co-workers asked if I'd mind if she rode with me. My reply, knowing that she was a much faster rider than I, was that it was fine to ride with me but that I thought she wouldn't be happy with my speed. We agreed to start together and we also agreed that she would take off when she met some faster riders to ride with. That happened at the first rest stop, and she was gone. As always, I was fine with riding alone. I didn't see her again until several hours after I finished the ride for the day, and my assumption was that she finished well before I did. Not so! I completed my ride at least 2 hours before she completed hers. Why? Because I rode at a consistent pace all day, stopping only to refuel and recycle (well not recycle - use the porta-potties!), while she raced off at a fast pace and then stopped at the rest stops for large chunks of time. She was pretty pissed at the end of the day that I'd finished before her!

The second was on a supported tour in California. We were riding from Eureka to San Francisco, and if I remember correctly our daily mileage ranged from 70 to 90 miles. There was one guy on the trip who blasted out of town each morning, speeding down the road. But somehow with my slow but steady pace, I always finished the ride well before him. I really didn't care - but he did! He couldn't understand how I finished first.

I think both of these were a classic case of the old "tortoise and the hare" fable.

But the point again is that we should all ride to meet our own goals - and not those of someone else!

Happy riding everyone...

--- Denise

[jeannierides]

Denise, I absolutely agree with you. When my SO and I go out, we practice pedaling at a consistant cadence and speed (and I practice changing gears on the hills). Neither one of us are out to win races, but to enjoy riding and the scenery! We stop at rivers, creeks, swamps, and sometimes to help a little turtle across the road.:p When we do organized rides, we are more prepared to do our steady pace and enjoy the ride! :D

[SadieKate]

we should all ride to meet our own goals - and not those of someone else!--- DeniseAnother "eh, yep!" from me!

[SadieKate]

Have you upset the cycling gods. First HOT HOT weather and now a flat. Perhaps you need to make an offering. I hear that they like good looking husbands.:DHa! Good one! I just asked him and he said to offer up Andrew first since he's younger and faster. So the nice 22-yr old Cat 4 racer/wrench/college dude living here for the month gets thrown over the cliff first.

Bubba was so sweet on the TT. On the way back, he couldn't resist stopping to see if his sweetie needed help. He said he knew I could handle it but his chivalry got the better of him. I shooed him on but even after stopping to talk to me he got the same time as last week so you know it was going to be a fast night. What a guy.

Note to self: must find cliff here in the flatlands.

[Tater]

But the point again is that we should all ride to meet our own goals - and not those of someone else!

Happy riding everyone...

--- Denise

Well said!

[maillotpois]

Ha! Good one! I just asked him and he said to offer up Andrew first since he's younger and faster. So the nice 22-yr old Cat 4 racer/wrench/college dude living here for the month goes through over the cliff first.

Bubba was so sweet on the TT. On the way back, he couldn't resist stopping to see if his sweetie needed help. He said he knew I could handle it but his chivalry got the better of him. I shooed him on but even after stopping to talk to me he got the same time as last week so you know it was going to be a fast night. What a guy.

Note to self: must find cliff here in the flatlands.


What a guy is Bubba!!! Always stopping to help a gal in need (like me and the PP on the tandem...). And here sacrificing his own results.

I think we'll be back for the TT beginning of August - will run the dates by DH. I know you won't let me ride it even if I promise not to crash.

[SadieKate]

You got that right. I'll attach the 3 full sets of snow chains we now seem to have acquired for the Bike Bus.

But the truly important question: are you allowed frozen margs?

[maillotpois]

But the truly important question: are you allowed frozen margs?


Duh. What do you think?? :cool:

(I am just to have fewer of them than I might otherwise....)

[SadieKate]

Hmm, I'm sure we'll find takers for the remainder of the carafe.

[Nanci]

mp, if you've built up a previous tolerance, you should be allowed more now!

[DrBee]

Just don't have so many that you might lose your balance and bump your head and have that whole bleeding in your skull thing start up. SK - you'll have to make up the difference!

[maillotpois]

Sadly, my limited experience leads me to the conclusion that SK may not be up to the challenge. My previous tolerance being somewhat scary.... While on the rat poison, etc., my doctor advised 1 - 2 glasses wine max daily, with the key thing being consistency of amount - i.e., no benders.

[Nanci]

I'm hoping they meant 8 ounce glasses!

[SadieKate]

Sadly, my limited experience leads me to the conclusion that SK may not be up to the challenge. My previous tolerance being somewhat scary.... Yes, she's got me totally outclassed. I do have a month to practice.

It should be noted that the frozen margs are within walking distance of our house.

[maillotpois]

I'm hoping they meant 8 ounce glasses!


That's what I am going with...

[DrBee]

Maybe they meant the big giant glasses...

Walking distance...sounds like a plan! Wish I could be there. I could handle a few.

[pkq]

pkq, (in my best Canadian) eh yep.:D Got a flat on tonight's TT though. Kind of hard to go fast and pump air at the same time.:mad: I was feeling sooooo good, too.

That just bites it to the rim, eh? Don't you hate when that happens, feeling good, everything clicking, you know a personal best awaits you, then pssst?

I endured two flats on BTC last week. One was on a climb with such a slow leak, I rode to the top before changing it. I was about 1/2 mile from the last rest stop on the last day. Needless to say, my sense of humor was gone.

[SadieKate]

I was glad no one was around to hear my very unladylike discussions with my tire. I retired to my abode and had very ladylike sips of a Mike's instead. I gotta train to take up MP's frozen margarita slack.

[maillotpois]

I gotta train to take up MP's frozen margarita slack.

You may need some wind tunnel work for that.

[RoadRaven]

Wow... did this thread explode, or what?

I wanted to agree with Eden and BouncyBouncy way back on the first couple of pages...

Averages are really no more than an interest thing... a bit of fun... and don't really tell you much. There are too many variables...

The best advice in this thread I saw first was about page 6 I think from Eden... compare your average, fine, but only over the same course in similar conditions.

I have about four training courses, and about six club courses where I will try and do PBs.
I can compare myself to other riders on the club courses, and on my training course.
I try and choose days that I attempt my PB that have similar weather/wind/temperature conditions so the variables are minimised and I can measure my improvements more accurately.

To give an example of how averages do not tell you about ability UNLESS you have all the information...


On the 4th of June I rode flats for 9km but only managed an 18.5km av - this is way below what I am comforatable riding at but I was riding with my 10 year old son.

On the 5th of June I rode 83km at an average of only 22.74km - again, as a speed, not what I am comfortable riding at but this course has loads of hills and it was the first time I had ridden this far.

On the 2nd July my average was 31km per hour - I did a PB over a club TT course, though it wasn't a race situation and I think I would have done even better if it had been a club race.

I was happy with all those averages - but they need to be understood in their context.

I am much more of the opinion of time on the bike, and rides per week are the measures by which you watch your riding. While I was obsessed with averages to begin with - and it is a very real way to measure yourself as a beginning biker... I only fret about my average now in race (against others or myself) situations.

As for the stir that Lenusik made, well - I read the post and agreed with her... alot of the averages here are slow for me... now.
But I'd like to say to all the beginning riders... that all pro-riders started at a beginning level...
And to those who are not motivated by speed but rather by enjoyment and the pleasure of getting on a bike and increasing personal fitness ... don't get put off by people, like myself, who are obsessed with PBs (and beating my sister-in-law or my colleague at work).
We all have our own goals, and they are all valid.

The important thing is that we are all on bicycles, and we all get pleasure from the cycling we do.

[SadieKate]

As for the stir that Lenusik made, well - I read the post and agreed with her... alot of the averages here are slow for me... now.
But I'd like to say to all the beginning riders... that all pro-riders started at a beginning level...
And to those who are not motivated by speed but rather by enjoyment and the pleasure of getting on a bike and increasing personal fitness ... don't get put off by people, like myself, who are obsessed with PBs (and beating my sister-in-law or my colleague at work).So, when MP and Nanci average only 13.5 miles an hour over a 600k, they're only beginning riders?

13.5 maybe slow for you on your course with your equipment, terrain, age, weight, winds, etc., etc., etc., It can be damn fast in other situations. When you can ride a 600K faster than that, let us know.

Sorry, but you sound like the Bike Club president who told me I wasn't a serious cyclist because I don't ride ultra-distance events. Well, I haven't noticed Lance riding brevets either. You start out your post by agreeing that the variables are critical, but you end it with implying that slow speeds make you a beginning rider. You want to re-consider?

[eclectic]

Thanks for ALL the input. Has made for very interesting reading . I really didn’t mean to open up such a can of worms - I will know next time and averages HAVE been put in much better perspective.

I am still pretty slow compared to others on the group ride but the leader said for the long haul on the tour I am training for I will be better off than some because the way I ride won’t injure my knees (lower gear but high cadence)

Another thing to note when everyone is quoting numbers are they all MPH unless specified KMH, I accidently switched my computer to kilometers and WOW was I good! my average was 22

Some of the numbers sound more like kmh than mph

AND thought of a new variable - computers! how accurate are they ? ? ?

Last night on the club ride I averaged 14.7 over 30 miles with a one mile long 9% grade climb,
wind was negligble ( x wind of about 5 mph - heavenly for this area - today is 14mph again). I rode pretty much neck in neck with another gal who got less than a 1/2 mile ahead of me for the last 5 miles. ( part was I had to wait for traffic but my computer stops on waits) My computer at the end said 14.7average and hers said 15.9.

SOOO we all decided that either computers lie or mine is running slow - the vote was cast and mine is running slow.:D

Thanks for the great discussions and the great personalities.

Lets all make peace and RIDE ON!

[SadieKate]

#1 rule for calculating average speed: if you start and end the ride with the same person, you use the longest distance and the highest avg speed, even if it is from two different computers.

Let's go back to talking about drinking.

[Nanci]

I've only tasted (and recorded notes on) 170 bottles of wine since I began officially Tasting a year ago spring, (not counting repeats, some of which are 5 or more!, and restaurant bottles) so I am not sure if I am still a beginner or not.

I am right at my one year anniversary of really road biking, and have ridden roughly 5000 miles in that year. But since I found out we could consider our max speed our average speed, I think I am near the top with 49.1 mph.

Cheers to my two favorite things to do!!

Nanci

[eclectic]

Hmmm. I love tequila but hate Marguaritas - what is a girl to do? ? ?

[Nanci]

How can anyone hate margaritas???

BF makes these really expensive margaritas. I'm not sure of the recipe, but the two bottles of Anejo and Grand Marnier cost nearly $100. Then some fresh limes and powdered sugar. They taste very strong to me, but after the first couple, who cares?? This one time, at band camp, I was taking a shower. I heard this heartbreaking shriek followed by very much cursing from the kitchen, then silence. When I came running out, there he was, crouched on his hands and knees, sucking up spilled margaritas off the floor with a straw (frozen, luckily). I guess when you are unlucky enough to drop the blender-full, and the batch cost $$$$$$$$$, a man's gotta do what a man's gotta do. Man, I love teasing him about that!

[eclectic]

I've only tasted (and recorded notes on) 170 bottles of wine since I began officially Tasting a year ago spring, (not counting repeats, some of which are 5 or more!, and restaurant bottles) so I am not sure if I am still a beginner or not.

I am right at my one year anniversary of really road biking, and have ridden roughly 5000 miles in that year. But since I found out we could consider our max speed our average speed, I think I am near the top with 49.1 mph.

Cheers to my two favorite things to do!!

Nanci

I did my first wine tasting a year ago, made me appreciate wine a little more. I can now drink merlot or shiraz with dinner

My BF likes wine - I like beer and tequila - not mixed:eek:

Heifeweisen, Black and Tan, Beamish, Muphy's, Red stripe, Pacifica, Corona, Coors light - its all good (must leave out Bud light - I don't like the name :p

Dream vacation: Cycling through Ireland doing a pub crawl and staying at bed and breakfasts

Just remember:
Beer before wine you do just fine
Beer before liquor never sicker
liquor before beer you're in the clear!

[DrBee]

Now that is a true love of margaritas. We're having a Margherita pizza for dinner. Not anything like the drink, but good none-the-less. If you're a beginner Nanci, then I guess I'm a mere infant.

[SadieKate]

I hated margaritas also until I discovered that 1) you didn't have to have them with salt and 2) frozen ones are sublime after racing a time trial on a summer evening.

[SadieKate]

What is a margherita pizza?

[DrBee]

A thing of yumminess...fresh tomatoes, basil, and fresh mozarella. Simple, yet delicious! It's from the ONE gourmet place we have.

[maillotpois]

Hmmm. I love tequila but hate Marguaritas - what is a girl to do? ? ?


Duh. Shots.

[SadieKate]

Yumm. I'm also a big bruschetta fan.

[dachshund]

Lemon drops are fun. Our local beverage store, suitably named "Beverages and More", has all the fun colored sugar and syrup. Oprah had half a show devoted to these things, which I happened to catch. :) Good thing!

[Nanci]

Mmm, someone here is a lemon drop lover- I'm sure she will come out of the woodwork!

[snapdragen]

When I came running out, there he was, crouched on his hands and knees, sucking up spilled margaritas off the floor with a straw .

I remember seeing someone do that; only it wasn't margaritas it was cocai......Nevermind.:eek:

[snapdragen]

Mmm, someone here is a lemon drop lover- I'm sure she will come out of the woodwork!

Ooooh! Ooooooh! **hand raised high**

Although the Caipirinha I had at dinner a week or so ago is still a fond memory....

[Grog]

Ooooh! Ooooooh! **hand raised high**

Although the Caipirinha I had at dinner a week or so ago is still a fond memory....

*hand raised too!!!*

And Caipiroska... Anything with lemon!!

[DrBee]

never had one, but it sounds good!

[snapdragen]

*hand raised too!!!*

And Caipiroska... Anything with lemon!!

Lemon, Lime, sometimes Orange.

snap loves her citrus. Plus, I get that vitamin C, so it's healthy, right?:rolleyes:

[Nanci]

What are caipirinha and caipiroska?

(Sounding suspiciously like Danish "snaps" to me!!!)

[snapdragen]

What are caipirinha and caipiroska?

(Sounding suspiciously like Danish "snaps" to me!!!)

Brazilian dear, Brazilian.

Caipirinha (kai pee ren yah) is a Brazilian cocktail made from cachaça, limes, sugar, and ice. In Brazil, it is served in most restaurants, and is considered a characteristic drink of the country. Its simplicity and tangy sweetness have made it popular all over the world, and it is considered by the IBA[citation needed] to be one of the 50 greatest drinks of all time.

The word "caipirinha" is the diminutive of "caipira". Although the word itself can be either masculine or feminine, the drink is referred to in the feminine in Portuguese, and thus could be translated as "little caipira (country) girl".

A caipifruta is prepared in the same way, replacing or complementing the lime with any other fruit (always fresh, never juices). Popular fruits include passion fruit, kiwi, lemon, pineapple, and strawberry.

A caipiroska or caipirosca is a caipirinha made with vodka instead of cachaça, and is also a popular cocktail in Brazil.

[Nanci]

What is cachaça? I already love the drink- I can tell- I love lime.

[snapdragen]

What is cachaça? I already love the drink- I can tell- I love lime.

It's distilled from sugar cane. More cut and paste:

Cachaca is Brazilian liquor made from distilled sugar cane juice. While rum is distilled from molasses, cachaca is distilled directly from the juice of the unrefined sugar cane. Before distillation, the juice ferments in a wood or copper container for three weeks, and is then boiled down three times to a concentrate. Cachaca is always distilled in such a way that the scent of sugar cane and inimitable flavor typical of rum are retained.

[RoadRaven]

So, when MP and Nanci average only 13.5 miles an hour over a 600k, they're only beginning riders?

13.5 maybe slow for you on your course with your equipment, terrain, age, weight, winds, etc., etc., etc., It can be damn fast in other situations. When you can ride a 600K faster than that, let us know.

Sorry, but you sound like the Bike Club president who told me I wasn't a serious cyclist because I don't ride ultra-distance events. Well, I haven't noticed Lance riding brevets either. You start out your post by agreeing that the variables are critical, but you end it with implying that slow speeds make you a beginning rider. You want to re-consider?

No... I was not referring to long-term riders with the reference to beginning riders... someone in this thread - and I forget who - made reference to herself being a beginning rider...

Yes I know 13 1/2 mph can be damn fast - I too know what a head wind is like, and what nasty hills are like.

I suggest you go back to my post - I implied slow averages may be beacuse one is a beginning rider, or because one is a recreational rider (and yes, to many, riding a 600k to complete it is recreational, riding it to have the fastest time is a different motivation).

I also implied by my post that the same rider has different averages for different reasons on different rides.

Trying to suggest that to complete is a good enough reason.
Trying to suggest that to measure oneself against oneself is the most useful measure of increasing fitness.
Trying to imply that an average means nothing without knowing the variables involved.

I'm not reconsidering what I wrote, I stand by it.
I am sorry if it was clear not enough.

[Jen Jen]

I am right at my one year anniversary of really road biking, and have ridden roughly 5000 miles in that year.

OMG, 5000 miles! WOW!!!

I just got my road bike a little over 2 months ago. I've just got around 300 miles in. I was a little disappointed to realize that 5 years of riding my hybrid didn't prepare me for my road bike like I would have thought. But I'm getting better, little by little. I look forward to being able to manage longer rides (so far, my best is 25 miles. I will be excited to break the 30 miles I had ridden in previous years on the hybrid.)

You average almost 100 miles/wk.

I say again, WOW!!!

:D

[Kano]

I just got my road bike a little over 2 months ago. I've just got around 300 miles in. I was a little disappointed to realize that 5 years of riding my hybrid didn't prepare me for my road bike like I would have thought. But I'm getting better, little by little. I look forward to being able to manage longer rides (so far, my best is 25 miles. I will be excited to break the 30 miles I had ridden in previous years on the hybrid.):D
Jen Jen, I'm curious! What were you hoping for, and what did you find in making the change in bike types? A little over two months ago -- that's about how long I've had my bike, and that was just a couple of weeks after ski season ended, which means that for much of the country roads were just getting civilized and warmth was beginning to return -- were you coming off a winter hiatus maybe and having to build strength again because of that?

Seems to me that Nanci recently wrote about riding in Florida? If so, she's got an "eternal summer" advantage over some of us (unless she traveled there to do that ride!) Not saying that 5000 miles is easy to find time for, but it's probably easier to log that many miles if you can ride year round!

Karen in Boise

[Nanci]

Yes I live in Florida! It gets cold here in the winter, though- 20's- enough that I am pining away for real winter cycling shoes. But I did keep my cycling tan all winter.

Everyone is free to move here!

Jen Jen, you'll get there! The road bike _wants_ you to ride long! Ride a couple nights a week, if you can, and a longer ride on the weekend, and increase that ride very gradually- 2 or 3 or 5 miles at a time- making sure you're eating while you ride because soon you're going to get into the time range where you use up your energy stores. My longest ride on road (not trail) a year ago was 37 miles at a Century. A person can make enormous progress in only a year!

Nanci

[mimitabby]

Jen Jen, I'm curious! What were you hoping for, and what did you find in making the change in bike types? A little over two months ago -- that's about how long I've had my bike, and that was just a couple of weeks after ski season ended, which means that for much of the country roads were just getting civilized and warmth was beginning to return -- were you coming off a winter hiatus maybe and having to build strength again because of that?

Seems to me that Nanci recently wrote about riding in Florida? If so, she's got an "eternal summer" advantage over some of us (unless she traveled there to do that ride!) Not saying that 5000 miles is easy to find time for, but it's probably easier to log that many miles if you can ride year round!

Karen in Boise

Hey Karen, I too switched from CRoss to Roadbike and it is one HECK of an adjustment. The gears are different on the two bikes so i had to re-learn where they were (still learning) the posture is different. I am being fitted by a local shop; i've been there twice and need to go back again!
It's fun to ride a really fast light bike though.

[Brandy]

if you can, and a longer ride on the weekend, and increase that ride very gradually- 2 or 3 or 5 miles at a time- making sure you're eating while you ride because soon you're going to get into the time range where you use up your energy stores. Nanci

Hit that point yesterday! http://www.tinklebelle.com/Smilies/images/wave.gif I did my very first ride on my road bike almost two months ago and Tiff and I did our longest ride (51.9 miles) yesterday and even though I've heard the women here preach about proper nutrition and hydration on longer rides, boy...does it smack you upside the head and become VERY REAL when you're out there. Thankfully it was a lesson that we won't forget...one energy gel and a Luna Bar is not enough food while riding 50 miles and hills! We should have stopped when we came out of the canyon and back into civilizathion like we had planned to originally, but instead we just pushed on and decided to stop and eat at the end of the ride. The last 1/4 mile I thought I might have to get off and walk and my mental alertness until I got some food in my body was pretty crappy. Won't be doing that again!

[Lenusik]

Yes I know 13 1/2 mph can be damn fast - I too know what a head wind is like, and what nasty hills are like.
I suggest you go back to my post - I implied slow averages may be beacuse one is a beginning rider, or because one is a recreational rider (and yes, to many, riding a 600k to complete it is recreational, riding it to have the fastest time is a different motivation).
I'm not reconsidering what I wrote, I stand by it.
I am sorry if it was clear not enough.
Dark Orchid,
Thanks a lot for putting this thread back on track at least for a little while. Obviously there is bad weather and bad hills, different bikes that we can all talk about all day long. But average is average. I hate riding when it is windy because I get pushed around too much, I am rather small. If I rode only hills I would never get this average. But let's just assume that we are talking about ideal weather that you have in your area, both hills, flats and declines. That's what I was talking about - the average ANYWHERE for an average cyclist is 18-20 mph. Maybe I get this speed because I don't drink alcohol or coffee at all. May be it is normal competitive nature that I have. Yes, when I see someone in front of me, whether it is a strong rider or a grandpa on a tricycle, I will chase this person, and could succeed or fail misarably. And btw, I have full respect to them no matter who they are, because they are riding. The most important thing is enjoying what you do and hopefully improve.

[mimitabby]

the average ANYWHERE for an average cyclist is 18-20 mph. Maybe I get this speed because I don't drink alcohol or coffee at all.


Lenusik;
I'd like to know where you got this statistic.

Lots of people don't drink alcohol or coffee (me) and i can assure you it doesn't make me a fast rider, give me a break.
Some of the faster riders in my club drink way too much.

here's some info from a scientific study that suggests the average speed is 15.5 mph:
http://www.walkinginfo.org/task_orders/to_8/to8/chap14/sect4.htm
Similar to motor vehicle traffic, bicycle speeds on uninterrupted facilities are not affected by volume over a large initial range. It is recommended that 25 km/h (15.5 mi/h) be used as the average bicycle running speed for the combined bicycle facility procedure. This speed falls within the range of speeds from previous studies as reported in the Bicycle Literature Review Section of the Research Report for this project ( Rouphail et al., 1997 ).

[Lenusik]

This is a good article that speaks of some designated cycling fascilities. I am lucky to have a very long stretch of the road that does not have any intesections. Maybe that what helps me. I can go at least for 10 miles or more at a time without stopping unless I chose to do that. And I have a several hills on the way that are about 1-2 miles long. So, maybe we should start talking about average speed per certain distance.

[Brandy]

Dark Orchid,
But let's just assume that we are talking about ideal weather that you have in your area, both hills, flats and declines. That's what I was talking about - the average ANYWHERE for an average cyclist is 18-20 mph.

I was going to type out a reply, but this guy says it all. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/BrandyMama/gaah.gif. Oh wait...I think he sums it up too. http://www.smileypad.com/v221/Angry/Bang-Head.gif

[mimitabby]

I was going to type out a reply, but this guy says it all. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/BrandyMama/gaah.gif. Oh wait...I think he sums it up too. http://www.smileypad.com/v221/Angry/Bang-Head.gif

don't bash your head Brandy. If the average bike speed was really 18-20 miles an hour, the Seattle to Portland bike ride would NOT be a two day event (It's 200 miles and relatively flat)

[Geonz]

I also find that statistic interesting - Frankly, an awful lot of *bicycles* don't go that fast for far without falling apart (since it's supposedly "anywhere.")
THinking about it... 18-20? That's butt-kicking fast for an average. Take a survey online of bicycle club ride rankings, and see where "18-20 mph" fits. Oh, those aren't "any" riders, "anywhere," either - they're bike club members, so forget all the putzers out on their three-speeds. Go on a big invitational ride... go 18 mph. Compare the passers and the passees.
I suppose that one statement puts everything in its perspective... must be riding in a different "anywhere" than I do. In that anywhere, 13 is slow. For the rest of the world - come on out and join us! It's a "level 2," here (though I confess, it's July... most of our Level 1's are there by now.)

[mimitabby]

Ride Classifications

All rides are listed according to guidelines that include pace, distance, terrain, etc. Note that helmets meeting CPSC, ANSI, or Snell standards, are required on all Cascade Rides.

All riders are expected to ride safely and be ready to ride at the start time.

Please choose from the following classifications for a ride that suits your skills and energy level.

Pace

Easy: Under 10 mph
Leisurely: 10-12 mph
Steady: 12-14 mph
Moderate: 14-16 mph
Brisk: 16-18 mph
Strenuous: 18-21 mph
Super Strenuous: 22+ mph

Note: for rides described as HILLY, consider choosing a pace one step down from your usual comfort level

[Pedal Wench]

Besides conditions, I really think the emphasis needs to be on ride length too. I'm sure I could hold an 18mph average over a time trial course - something like 10 miles. No way could I hold that on a century. When people post their averages without their total mileage, the number is useless.

Hey - I did an 87 mile ride last week with an 18 mph average. Unfortunately, it was mostly downhill! I don't consider that a true average!

[Lenusik]

Does 50 miles with average of 18.4 with 2 hills 8 and 9 miles respectfully and about 5-6 shorter (about hafl and mile to 1 mile) count?
I must admit, I am not as consistant as it sounds. If I don't get enough sleep or the food was not right the day before, or I have head wind, or my saddle hurt like hell, I may not be able to fo faster than 17 mph. But if everything is fine I can hold over 20. If you have some sort of disbelieve, please, you are more than welcome to come and ride with me and my friends. We will host you, provide you good food, find a good bike for you, and even take you on those hills which you think are "flat". Maybe you will find that riding with a good group is not all that bad and people are quite nice.

[tprevost]

I was going to type out a reply, but this guy says it all. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/BrandyMama/gaah.gif. Oh wait...I think he sums it up too. http://www.smileypad.com/v221/Angry/Bang-Head.gif


yeah, what she said...

t~

I'll be on my way now to riding an apparently very slow metric tomorrow... but having a great time none the less.

[Eden]

This is a good article that speaks of some designated cycling fascilities. I am lucky to have a very long stretch of the road that does not have any intesections. Maybe that what helps me. I can go at least for 10 miles or more at a time without stopping unless I chose to do that. And I have a several hills on the way that are about 1-2 miles long. So, maybe we should start talking about average speed per certain distance.

You are still really missing the point here. The only thing you can tell from watching your average speed over your familiar route is whether or not you personally are improving. As far as how competitive you would be against others it doesn't mean diddly. You still seem rather intent on putting down those gals here who ride much longer distances at slower speeds than you can achieve over 10 miles. Your devotion to this is almost comical. You might be quite surprised to find that many of these women that you are putting down for riding slowly are twice as strong as you when put on a short flat course. They have the base miles and are strong - they just do different types of rides than you do.

Also,in the end what you can do over 10 miles is just that - even if you had everyone there with you and we all rode the same course and you won all you would prove is that you have a good 10 mile TT. Could you complete a 400KM brevet? Could you do a week long self supported tour carrying all of your gear? Could you keep up with an agressive pack in a road race? Could you take a good corner in a crit? Maybe you could do all of these things, but maybe you might just find that even if you could beat everyone here in a 10 mile TT, that Nanci could tear the legs off of you over 400KM, Denise could run you ragged on a tour, and Caligurl could kick your butt on a day with 10,000 feet of climbing.

If you really think you are that great I encourage you to go and try racing. You'll find out very quick that its not about average speed at all. Its about tactics and bike handling and team work and a myriad of other things, with speed being just a part of it. Being the stongest helps,but it's not always what wins the day.

[Pedal Wench]

I forgot the another VERY important point, and that is drafting.

If I'm in a big group, I can easily ride at 20 too. I actually did a little experimenting on a very long, straight stretch of road (from Alamosa, CO to Salida, CO - just a very, very slight uphill grade, but not enough to be even noticeable) Riding by myself, I could push it to 16 mph. Tucked behind my rather thin boyfriend, we could up it to 18. Add just one more rider, and we could hold 20 for quite a while. Got behind a great long paceline, and we were holding 23-24mph for an hour. But, after 40 miles of this, when I dropped back, I could only manage 14-15. So many factors are involved, that trying to set a generic '13mph is slow' statement is just impossible.

The only way to know would be to put us all on the exact same TT course, no drafting, and at the exact same time, so the wind wouldn't be a factor, all on the same bike, so weight wouldn't matter.

[Lenusik]

You are still really missing the point here. The only thing you can tell from watching your average speed over your familiar route is whether or not you personally are improving. As far as how competitive you would be against others it doesn't mean diddly. You still seem rather intent on putting down those gals here who ride much longer distances at slower speeds than you can achieve over 10 miles. Your devotion to this is almost comical. You might be quite surprised to find that many of these women that you are putting down for riding slowly are twice as strong as you when put on a short flat course. They have the base miles and are strong - they just do different types of rides than you do.

Where are you getting that I am counting my achievent over 10 miles. I said that I have a 10 miles strech of the road that does not have intesections. This helps to maintain rythm and speed. it does not mean that all I do is 10 miles rides. My week day rides are between 25-30 miles. And my weekends rides are about 50-60, or insted I may just do hill repeats. Sometimes with a group or with my husband, or just alone.
Another point. I am not trying or even thinking about putting anybody down. The only person who can do that is yourself. I don't mean You, but it is what people chose to do to themselves. What I am saying is there are way to improve if you want, it is all possible. I want to improve, and I am the only person who can choose to do that or not. So, please, understand that if you are in your comfort zone, then why even worrying about what I say. Do, whatever you wish to do. I am not putting anybody down by sharing that I tend to ride a bit faster and that there are other riders who ride way faster than I do. I hope that Tour de France cyclist do not put anybody down by having an average speed of 35 mph after a 100 mile ride.

[mimitabby]

Lenusik
your statements about how fast YOU ride are not the problem. It's the ignorant comments about what constitutes a "normal" bike ride or "normal" bike speed that I find galling.
You apparently do not understand what average means.

[Lenusik]

Lenusik
your statements about how fast YOU ride are not the problem. It's the ignorant comments about what constitutes a "normal" bike ride or "normal" bike speed that I find galling.
You apparently do not understand what average means.
I understand it very well. I think that this discussion should be over because verybody will keep thier own opinion.
I am glad though that everybody here likes cycling.

[caligurl]

Lenusik
your statements about how fast YOU ride are not the problem. It's the ignorant comments about what constitutes a "normal" bike ride or "normal" bike speed that I find galling.
You apparently do not understand what average means.

to coin a "phrase" from bikeforums: +1

and the "attitude" that comes across in the posts...

[Eden]

Lenusik
your statements about how fast YOU ride are not the problem. It's the ignorant comments about what constitutes a "normal" bike ride or "normal" bike speed that I find galling.
You apparently do not understand what average means.

Well put Mimitabby, yes Lenusik - its not that you've shared your speed - its your attitude that anyone who is not doing your speed is somehow below par and not trying hard enough. I'll say it again - your average speed means little to nothing in comparison to others, unless you are riding the same course under the same conditions.

[FreshNewbie]

Common, we are all in the same sport, getting out and doing it for ourselves! Why do we need to argue about something so not important. Who cares who is faster, rides longer, has more endurance, etc? The most important thing is that you get out and ride, no matter how long, fast, uphill , downhill, mountain, road, cross, hybrid, tricycle, unicycle...... If you want to improve- then just doing, otherwise sitting on the board and compare youself to others is POINTLESS. Remember, the time you spent here on this thread could be used outside doing riding!

:D

[Lenusik]

and the "attitude" that comes across in the posts...
I am pretty sure that online discussion forums are not the best place to judge anyone's attitude.
Again, I am glad that all of us made cycling a part of our lives.

[Lenusik]

Remember, the time you spent here on this thread could be used outside doing riding!
:D
Well said, I wish I didn't have to be at work now.

[DrBee]

I was going to type out a reply, but this guy says it all. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/BrandyMama/gaah.gif. Oh wait...I think he sums it up too. http://www.smileypad.com/v221/Angry/Bang-Head.gif

I think you've captured the moment beautifully! But I have to add this...

Enough already! 18-20 is NOT average for most people!!! Especially when we are on normal rides and not riding a race. How many times do we have to say that weather, road conditions, terrain, fitness level, bike, reason for the ride, etc. play into how fast people ride??? Averages are generally useless. Lenusik - you are insulting many of us by telling us we are slow. Don't you get that? Or don't you care???

I have had it - I'm done with this thread!

[DeniseGoldberg]

I hope that Tour de France cyclist do not put anybody down by having an average speed of 35 mph after a 100 mile ride.
You seem to be pulling these numbers out of thin air. Just out of curiosity, I checked the Tour de France web site to look at the average speed of the winner on each of the stages so far this year.

The prologue was the fastest stage (from a speed kph/mph standpoint), but it was also very short at 7.1 km (4.6 miles). The speed? 51.4 kph or 31.9 mph.

Of the other stages completed so far, stage 2 was the slowest with a speed of 40.775 kph / 25.33 mph over 228.5 km / 142 miles, and stage 6 was the fastest at 45.308 kph / 28.153 mph over 225 km / 139.8 miles. Let's see, fast professional racers riding in a pack and drafting off each other. Yes, they are moving very fast - and while there are some hills, these are the sprint stages, no mountains here. Most of us couldn't come close to their speed given the same conditions.

Your statement that the TDF riders are averaging 35 mph makes me really question your numbers - especially given that they didn't come close to this speed even during the short prologue.

--- Denise

[Lenusik]

Your statement that the TDF riders are averaging 35 mph makes me really question your numbers - especially given that they didn't come close to this speed even during the short prologue.
--- Denise
Oh, sorry for using the word "average" refering to the riders of the Tour. They certainly produce that speed at a certain point of the stage. But you just prooved with your numbers that they ride faster than any one of us after several days of very long miles. So, does this put anybody down?
Sorry, I am done here. i was tryign to do this a little while ago. My apologies for disterbing peace.

[caligurl]

I am not putting anybody down by sharing that I tend to ride a bit faster and that there are other riders who ride way faster than I do.

no.... true... when you ONLY say how fast you are... you aren't putting anyone down... it's when you make the comments:

Sorry girls, but 13-15 mph sounds really slow to me. I was riding faster on the first days of my ride.

or when you say the top 25 on a list of over 150 people is some sort of average? (the MAJORITY of people on that list didn't ride the speeds of the top 25... and MORE rode more like 8 to 10 mph! the TOP of ANY list is NOT the AVERAGE!
Please check the average speed of the first 24 riders. This is a pretty standandard goal that an average rider may want to consider.


All I give is averages for anyone in any situation.


That's what I was talking about - the average ANYWHERE for an average cyclist is 18-20 mph.

[caligurl]

Remember, the time you spent here on this thread could be used outside doing riding!

:D

lol... actually... no... not in my case... i'm stuck at work... what better way to spend time than on cycling (or fitness) forums!!!!!

i NEVER give up my ride time for forum time!
http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/84.gif

[caligurl]

Lenusik - you are insulting many of us by telling us we are slow. Don't you get that? Or don't you care???


that bears repeating!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE ATTITUDE

[caligurl]

yeah, what she said...

t~

I'll be on my way now to riding an apparently very slow metric tomorrow... but having a great time none the less.


OH OH OH! and i'll be riding a very slow century! i'll be sure to take lots of pics along the way to share with anyone who cares to open the thread and see them once i post them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! if i'm lucky... hubby will slug along with me! i love when he rides slow with me! http://www.smileycons.com/img/emotions/156.gif

[FreshNewbie]

:D Caligurl, I meant that particular thread, unfortunatelly i am also stuck at work, but i am going to a real fun party tonight, lot's of martinis and god knows what else. So, i am all excited sitting at work and counting hours till i get home and start staring at my outfits for about an hour trying to choose what to wear

[caligurl]

I hope that Tour de France cyclist do not put anybody down by having an average speed of 35 mph after a 100 mile ride.

wow... you REALLY don't GET it.... NO ONE said that by stating YOUR average speed.. that you are putting anyone down... it's all the OTHER comments where you OUTRIGHT SAY that other speeds are slow... and all the other quotes...

*shakes head*

[caligurl]

:D Caligurl, I meant that particular thread, unfortunatelly i am also stuck at work, but i am going to a real fun party tonight, lot's of martinis and god knows what else. So, i am all excited sitting at work and counting hours till i get home and start staring at my outfits for about an hour trying to choose what to wear

oh.... isn't that the WORST! picking out clothes for any event? (party.... work... ride... shopping!) i STILL don't know what i'm wearing for 3 harbors tomorrow! UGH! (although i'm leaning toward pink! lol!)

[caligurl]

good gawd... the tour reference just reminded me about the post i made a while back... about attempting to ride with eric saunders... a professional racer.. maybe some of you remember it.... i tried SO HARD to keep up with him and hubby going up the hill that i made myself light headed and had to stop... something i've never had to do before!!!!! he didn't put me down for that.... he didn't put me down for being a slower rider....... HE WAS CONCERNED THAT I WAS OK! it's all in the attitude......

[carback]

Lenusik,
Perhaps you're actually caculating your average speed in km/h as opposed to mph.

(tongue firmly inserted into cheek)

[FreshNewbie]

Yes it is the worst considering that I don't have that much party clothes or cycling clothes for that matter. I only have one short sleeve cycling jersey that I keep washing after every ride :-). Well I am getting this http://www.teamestrogen.com/products.asp?pID=19046 after my first century in august. Pink sounds good to me, although lately I love electric blue

[Trek420]

OMG, where have i been?

Lenusik writes "I must admit, I am not as consistant (sic) as it sounds."

well yes, you seem consistent enough in ways.:rolleyes:

"If I don't get enough sleep or the food was not right the day before"

food was not right? When is food not right?

"or I have head wind"

I hate it when I have wind in my head :cool:

"If you have some sort of disbelieve"

Well, I do have "some sort of disbelieve".

I can't believe I'm responding to this when I could have head wind.

"please, you are more than welcome to come and ride with me and my friends. We will host you, provide you good food, find a good bike for you"

Oh my, you saying I don't have a good bike? Darlin' you have no clue how good a bike I have do ya? Or anyone else heres bike? Keep your bike, dear, thanks very much, ya got nothin' on mine.

"and even take you on those hills which you think are "flat". Maybe you will find that riding with a good group is not all that bad and people are quite nice."

I've found a good group darlin'.

I'm a member of the best bike club IRL the velogirls

And the best dang club in cyberspace TE.

Come ride with us, if you're woman enough that is.

Whether I'm leading the fast group (rare) trying to hang with the fast group (pant pant), trying to even keep the fast group in sight :cool: hanging back (because darlin' the fun is in the back of the pack) or sweeping in the last riders...it's all good, it's all cycling.

[tprevost]

Okay, now I am REALLY in NEED of one of those smilies that are rolling around laughing!!!!

Trek420 you are the BEST!!! Of course, maybe not, since I think I just peed my pants!!!! :D :D :D

Thanks for that - I've not had that good of a belly laugh in a long time!!!

Tracy

[HipGnosis6]

I don't care who thinks my 11.5 MPH average is slow. I'm still happy with it (proud of it, even), because it's better than my average walking speed - 2.8 MPH!

I don't care when chicks like Lenusik blow by me - I'm glad to let 'em. I don't care when guys in team kits give me snotty looks on the bike trail - I smile at them anyways and sometimes feel a little sorry for them because I'm having a nice time and can smile and ride at the same time. I don't care if climbing that last little hump of hill is done on foot or on the sidewalk at 1 MPH - and if you have a problem with that, then it's your problem and not mine. I feel joy and pride in being out on my bike and refuse to let the opinions of others affect this.

I'd like to improve my average speed, sure - it means that I'm growing as a cyclist and getting fitter. But that only matters to ME in the long run; there's no sponsors, no bettors with money riding on my performance. I use my average only to mark my own progress and growth. I also use my distance and TITS for the same purpose - judging myself, and not others.

And, for the record, I prefer beer to liquor and wine. BeerFest this year was a scream - my friend and I got to taste a huge variety of brews. My dream vacation would be a cycling tour in Germany that would allow us to go to Oktoberfest!

[Nanci]

oh.... isn't that the WORST! picking out clothes for any event? (party.... work... ride... shopping!) i STILL don't know what i'm wearing for 3 harbors tomorrow! UGH! (although i'm leaning toward pink! lol!)

(Spoken by the woman with the world's largest selection of cycling clothes!!!):p

[li10up]

Oh, sorry for using the word "average" refering to the riders of the Tour. They certainly produce that speed at a certain point of the stage. But you just prooved with your numbers that they ride faster than any one of us after several days of very long miles. So, does this put anybody down?
Sorry, I am done here. i was tryign to do this a little while ago. My apologies for disterbing peace.
Lenusik, I think you missed her point. The point being if the top cyclist in the world "only" go 40 kmp/25 mph while drafting off of one another on a flat stage in the TDF then it is reasonable to assume that the women here on TE are riding pretty doggon fast if their "average" speed is 15 mph - because they are factoring in traffic, hills, etc. - shoot, even less then 15 mph is pretty good for us recreational riders. If you can average 20+ mph (by definition avg. means factoring in the climbs too) then I would recommend you go pro...you're not far from being able to compete with the very best.

Even though this thread has ruffled some feathers I'm glad it was started. All new riders wonder how we are doing. It's only natural to question if your speed is considered "okay". I think we all know there are a lot of variables but I think most new folks probably search out about the same terrain...not too many hills! And I'm finding out that to go from 14.7 mph to 15 mph is hard!! So, I'm guessing that if you bear in mind that your ride isn't the same as my ride we can still use each other's averages to give us an idea of how we are doing. To me it obvious not to compare myself to someone who is riding 5,000 miles a year...they are obviously much fitter than I. So I try to "compare" myself to those who do about 1000 miles a year and have been riding for for only a year or two.

So here is my recommendation, let's see if we can post something that others can compare to:

Years riding: 2
Miles per Year: 700/1,000
Terrain: Rolling (options: flat, rolling, hilly, city)
Wind: Moderate (options: none, slight, moderate, windy)
Heat: Hot (options: cold, cool, warm, hot)
Avg Speed: 14.7 mph / 23.66 kph (this is what your computer says, or what your speed averaged over the entire ride, not just what you did on the flats sections)

Maybe this will help those of us interested in how we are doing to "compare" ourselves with people doing at least somewhat the same ride. I know there are more factors than the above, such as age, weight but I'm trying to keep it short.

[CR400]

Ok, Ok, I just have to reply now. Most of this thread has been quit entertaining, I was thinking there was a flame war coming for sure.

Anyway back to my point 13.5 or 13.9, whatever the first poster said is a fine speed, if you feel that you like it. My very first ride on my road bike two years ago was a whole 11.98 mph. Yes, I remember it exactly becuase I knew I was slow, and knew I was pathetic. Ok so I weighed 240lbs. But the ride was mostly flat with a slight false flat. I got to the end of the false flat and thought I would die. Fast forward almost two years later and 17-18mph is an avearge ride for me. Oh and I got down to 185, I know that is what helped the most. And for me personally I'll never be fast enough for what I want to be. But do I impose that on others NO, I really don't care what you average or how far you go as long as you are moving. I really and truely like to go fast because it makes me feel free, and and adds a little bit of danger and out of control. Kind of like riding a roller coaster. To me it is so liberating to know that I am going say 25mph under my own power and not some motor powered machine.

But what does gall me in all of this is how you attacked Lenusik and then RoadRaven. They were stating there opinions on the topic. Ok, so most of you feel that Lenusik came off as arrogent and rude, and hurt your feelings, so ignore the comments then don't encourage it by replying to it. Even I did a double take and said yeah right when I read that post, only two women I know that can do those speeds all the rest would be men. And by the way both those ladies lapped me three times in a crit.

You know what annoyes me even more and I think at least one of you has been in on it. Those threads that end up "I'm so thin and scrawny that size 0 and 2 don't fit me." You know some of us can litterally never be that small, I weighed 150 pounds in high school right on for my height and build and was a blasted 16. Got down to one point recently to only 5 pounds above weight where I could go into the military, and had to lay down on the bed to button a size 10. Which if one considers the change in sizing it would have been like an old 14. As far as cycling clothes you'd have to cut off my breasts to even fit into the biggest of the regular size womens jerseys in most lines.

Oh wait I have another one lets put each other down based on miles we ride. I know I'll be toward the bottem on that list. Just because you can ride 300k which is less then a double century doesn't make you all that just like an average of 26mph doesn't. Are both admirable, very much so, would I like to be able and go out right now and do both, you bet. But I'll bet that double century comes long before that 26. Ok the rant is over.

I don't care what speed you ride or how far you go, just ride your bike.

[mimitabby]

Years riding seriously: 1
Miles per Year: 700/1,000
Terrain: hilly, city
Wind: Slight-Moderate
Heat: cool
Avg Speed: ~12.2 mph

[eclectic]

So here is my recommendation, let's see if we can post something that others can compare to:

Years riding: 2
Miles per Year: 700/1,000
Terrain: Rolling (options: flat, rolling, hilly, city)
Wind: Moderate (options: none, slight, moderate, windy)
Heat: Hot (options: cold, cool, warm, hot)
Avg Speed: 14.7 mph / 23.66 kph (this is what your computer says, or what your speed averaged over the entire ride, not just what you did on the flats sections)

Maybe this will help those of us interested in how we are doing to "compare" ourselves with people doing at least somewhat the same ride. I know there are more factors than the above, such as age, weight but I'm trying to keep it short.[/QUOTE]

I LIKE this. It can give us cause to celebrate our acheivements:)

Years riding seriously: 1
Miles per Year: 800 -1200 (season's not over yet) excluding winter trainer
Terrain: rolling with at least 1 good climb
Wind: High except for 1 day a year
Heat: cool, cold, warm, hot (had 4 layers on one day)
Avg Speed: ~13.5 - 14.5 oh 14 MPH !

AND NOW EVERYONE I STARTED THIS THREAD AND I WOULD LIKE EVERYONE TO SHAKE HANDS AND MAKE PEACE! :)

[FreshNewbie]

I will agree with CR400 about comments that were thrown back and forward between some of the gals on this thread. I believe most of women who post here are grown up, intelligent and friendly people, which leads to believe that one can handle a situation much better than it was. I don't think that some of the remarks that were posted were any better than an ignorant ( to some) posts by Lenusik or RoadRaven. Anyway, conversation about drinks way better than this blahhhhh conversation

[li10up]

Oh, one more thing...when it comes to weather it varies so much...just pick whatever your recent rides have been. Base all your info on your last few "normal" rides.

[Geonz]

Hmmm.... somebody in Trollville might just be keeping score on how many pages we've put into this... but lots of it *has* been interesting. (I'm thinking that the clever interpretation of "average" and "opinions" and friendliness ... Sorta reminds me of some of the messages thrown at us from politicians...)

I'm not at all galled that somebody finally tossed back a little of the "from my sanctified heights I would be most glad to entertain you" in the same kind of form. I have to disagree that attitude can't be judged in postings. I'm not saying it was a wonderful thing -- but it ain't galling, and the comments kept coming.

[caligurl]

Years riding seriously: 2 years & 9 days! :cool:
Miles per Year: 7277 (that's 1/2 of my 2 year grand total.... so a good average)
Terrain: rolly, hilly, town with some stop lights/signs or open desert usually...
Wind: moderate to stong
Heat: desert (upwards of 110-120 in the summer... and yes... i ride in the afternoon after work in the summertime!)
Avg Speed: ~13.74 (my average using all rides for the 2 years according to bikejournal) (13.66 for just this year alone)

i'll add one more:

elevation gain: 201,316 for this year (jan 1 to jul 4th rides) 343,945 for last year

[CR400]

Years riding 2, serious around 5 months, started in March.

Miles per year: Bike has 3,525 miles total on it, 1,326 so far this season. I live in the north so riding in the winter takes a really dedicated cyclist to get miles in outside.

Terrain: it really depends on my route that day mostly rolling to flat with a few good hills thown in. A few rides this year have been on steep route though.

Wind: really does change daily try not to ride in winds over 20mph.

Heat: Moderate, it can range anywhere between 95 to 30 during the spring to October riding season. Did a race this year at start time it was 28 degrees.

Average: between 17-18.5 mph, my bike journal ave is 16.77. this includes my much slower rides in freezing January to early March.

[jeannierides]

wow :rolleyes:

[Eden]

RAAM Winners 2006
distance 3,042 miles
terrain - varied, flat and windy to very mountainous
temp- death valley to cold of night

men's winner: Daniel Wyss, avg speed 13.36 mph
women's winner: Shanna Armstrong, avg speed 10.63 mph