new to cycling--speed??

[Zen]

Though I have never monitored my cycling speed...but I think to be a good cyclist on a regular basis a person must get a speed of 15-20 mphs.

Being a "good cyclist" has nothing to do with speed. If you had some idea of what your actual riding speed is you might amend that statement.

Interesting signature.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Being a "good cyclist" has nothing to do with speed. If you had some idea of what your actual riding speed is you might amend that statement.
Interesting signature.

Oops....she's GONE.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Speed depends SO much on so many factors, such as age, weight, condition, bike type and weight, temperature, hydration, gears, terrain, experience, weather, blah blah blah...
so much so that I believe to compare speeds between people is almost meaningless.
The right speed is what's right for you.
I average about 10mph. I'm an 56yr old cyclist with no athletic background on fairly hilly terrain with a loaded steel bike, and I ride for health and enjoyment. Works for me!

[Jiffer]

Yeah, I did want to mention again how much the terrain makes a difference. I can do a relatively flat ride to the beach and back at a 20 average, (the only time I have gotten a 20 and it's a total thrill ) or I can climb 7,000 feet and get a 12 average.

A lighter bike, clipping in and pedaling efficiently make a big difference. Keeping your tire pressure up (i.e. pumping before every ride ... making sure you don't have a slow leak and/or brake pad rubbing ). The weather, fueling, etc. All of these things play a factor in speed in addition to your strength and ability level.