Way to go effulgent! Keep at it! It just gets better and better, and more and more fun!

When I started riding in January, 10 miles was my goal, and when I hit it I was thrilled. Riding regularly has made such a big difference, and I can now do my regular weeknight 20-mile ride without stopping at all, and I'm working on increasing my pace, and then adding distance on the weekends.

Do you have anyone to ride with? Having a couple of riding buddies has really helped me -- I have several friends that are experienced cyclists, and are (thankfully) happy to ride with me on these "short" rides - working to keep up with them has really motivated me, and they have taught me all the cycling protocols and safety rules. One tip that really helps is "drink before you're thirsty and eat before you're hungry". I also got a computer on my bike, and when I ride alone I watch the average speed and heart-rate to keep working hard.

I hear ya about the heat - it totally undoes me, so I have been riding very early in the morning on weekends. Luckily here in the Bay Area in the evenings, it generally cools off - then there are just the wicked bay "breezes" to contend with! (I try to think of them as workout enhancers!)

My next challenge is to work more hills in. I feel pretty strong on the flats, but as soon as I hit a longish hill, I really feel the extra weight I am carrying up the hill, more than my strength, and it's a little discouraging. So I want to keep dropping the weight before tackling anything too serious.

Congrats!