I wouldn't worry too much about your speed as long as you are enjoying yourself. I used to have a faster average speed a few years back and was always pushing myself as fast/hard as I could. For some reason this year is diffrent for me. I am riding more slowly and taking time to enjoy my surroundings. Riding 9mph vs 15+ has many great positive aspects...1) Gives you more time to react if you need to in a vairety of situations 2)Have more time to enjoy the "flowers" 3) No pressure to beat your time from last time or to try to catch up to the person ahead of you. The list could on and on. Have fun out there!!