I've been reading this thread and thinking about something my sister, who's ridden for many years, told me. If you want to go faster, ride with guys-they'll really push you. I have to admit, when I ride with my hubby, I go faster!!
I wonder if that's cuz when they ride, they just ride. When I ride, I ride, but I also enjoy the scenery, which does slow me down some, I know!