So I was the turtle.

[Torrilin]

I am pretty speedy even on this bike, just not as speedy as the folks riding lighter bikes.

I think the issue is WEIGHT. My bike weighs about 45 lbs. I fly down hills but I am slower uphill. On straightaways it's ... eh... okay. By mile 20 I am pretty tired.

I have road bike envy.

That's pretty heavy even for a mountain bike. Mine is around 35 lbs, loaded with full commuter/utility goodies. A lighter bike would help.