I agree with Mimi. The kids can go longer distances than we realize, if they are properly encouraged, supported and fed. Most kids don't know how long a mile is, so the thought of riding 20 of them doesn't seem to click like it does in an adult.

However, my son who has been my biking partner for 3 years now, is falling behind me, and now I'm worried about whether he will be able to do the 50 mile ride we have planned for October. eek.

Also, to the original thread....when it starts to feel like a grind to me, I slow down and remember why I always liked riding in the first place. One of my favorite things to do when I was a teen on a ten-speed was swerve around and crush as many dry leaves as I could. Something about that crunch was just so satisfying! So now when I start to feel "eh" about my ride, I start crunching some leaves (as dry as it's been we have plenty, even though it's not fall). Or I follow the shadows of the power lines on the pavement. Or I ride around neighborhoods and admire houses or look in people's windows. (Yes, really! If they don't like it they shouldn't leave their shades up!)

When it starts to feel like "work" or "fitness" then I get bored. So I shake it up a little and ride somewhere else, stop and get a milkshake.

Karen