do you ride by time or miles?

[SadieKate]

Miles are not a true indicator or your effort. Your total miles will vary by terrain (ie hilly or flat), wind, traffic, road ride vs mtn bike ride, etc.

Well said.

The 87 mile survival ride of the SLO Wildflower was far beyond the effort of the Santa Rosa 200k. I've been on 50 mile mtn bike rides that were harder than road centuries.

I factor miles, terrain, bike type, effort for that ride, etc. when planning each ride. I have specific set loops that I use for road training during the week only because I know that they work for the time alloted so I don't go for a pure time-based workout like Eden. But depending on that week's plan, I may cruise an easy recovery pace or do intervals. A mtb ride is generally based on the miles only because of the practicality of trail layouts, but if I'm on a multi-day trip I'll vary the routes based on effort level (time, distance and trail difficulty).

So one of my little pet peeves: the perceived mileage competition over on bikejournal. It ain't a competition unless both riders know it. I'm for quality miles not junk miles. The members with specific goals such as races or particular events (like DMD or brevets) never get their chamois in a bundle over their rank. Matter of fact, an extremely strong rider I know states that due to knee trouble, he can only tolerate X hours of riding per year. He obviously makes the most of those hours and I wish I could ride like he does. Ok, have to step down off my little soap box now.