Calls for thoughts/advice 1st CenturyRide

[tygab]

but, there are other distances at a century ride, sometimes as little as 25 miles! So I thought maybe she is doing one of those, and is just excited about the group ride aspect?

Z, I think you need to be careful about this too. Most cyclists prepare for long distance rides (say anything over 60ish) for several months to get the mileages up there, and that's assuming they've ridden shorter distance rides before, have familiarity with long rides, group rides, any number of things. You learn a great deal about your capabilities on these longer rides, including how to manage your food and drink on your own. In group rides, you'll learn how to watch others for cues that they're slowing or speeding up etc.

If you had indicated you started cycling back in say May or June to get ready for the big 100, etc then I'd be less concerned for you. Even then, most cyclists don't go for centuries in their first road seasons (but some do, and it can be done).

Tell us a little about your training. What has your longest ride been to prepare? We just want to make sure you come out of the experience on the positive side, not injured or hating the experience...

-T

[zondian]

Thank you all for your concern and reality checks, sincerely.

[Mr. Bloom]

My advice has mental angles to it:
- don't count the miles ahead...take it one mile at a time.
- if you get tired or discouraged, make a deal to go to the next SAG...you'll feel better by the time you get that far.