check out your local bike clubs--I know mine has a women's only ride that goes about 17-20 for 30+ miles once a week and then has another open to anyone in the community on Sunday mornings--both are no drop. I think a lot of clubs (be sure to differentiate between teams for racers only and team/club atmospheres) offer a variety of rides. By the way--I think 17-20 mph is plenty fast! I've been riding for about a year now and that's about my average speed too Really, I think that most people (especially women) who go too much faster are those who train for racing, triathlons, etc--at least that's what I've experienced on my neck of the roads...Happy riding!!