Should I try a century earlier than I had planned?

[Geonz]

As long as you don't get with a group that goes faster than your sustainable pace, the group effect will make it totally do-able. YOu'll prob'ly be tired, but supported rides are a great way to stretch your horizons.
Then go plug hte miles in at bike journal and see how your ranking boings up!!!

[SJCzar]

I definitely agree with everyone else. It is sooooo much easier to do 100 miles on a well supported organized ride then even 60-70 on your own. Part of the reason I sign up for so many rides is I know that I'll do so much better because of the well timed stops with plenty of food and drink that I would never do on my own.

When I did my first Century of the year in June, I hadn't ridden more than 65-70 at a crack, and I had no problems with the 100.

At this time on the year in the Midwest, you'd better take a nice weather opportunity when you can get it. It doesn't mean that you can't still do the other Century.

[kaian]

Yesterday was the Celebration of Cycling and I did the century!!!! I felt great through the whole ride. I rode with 2 other people I know and that made it easier than riding alone - not so much drafting (because we didn't do a lot of that), but just the companionship.

I was a little tired after, but not any more than on the 70 mile ride I did last week. After cleaning up, we went and got food and beer. Great recovery method. hahaha. Today (the day after) I feel fine. A little sore in my legs and girl parts, but don't feel battered or anything.

Thanks for all of the encouragement. I'm already planning what longer rides I want to do next year! hahaha.

So...now that Winter is coming, what should I do to not lose too much fitness? Spinervals? What else?

[jobob]

Excellent !!!! Congratulations kaian !