How can i get my speed up???

[nscrbug]

I rode 33 miles yesterday and it took me 1hr47min and today i went out on a 23 mile ride and it took 1hr19min. I thought i was going a good pace average 15mph then today this guy rode past me and just left me in the dust dust dust and killed my confidence that i was doing well.lol I ride 4-5 times a week 20-25 miles average and average speed is 15mph and sometimes i do go lower. What advice can you give me to pick up the speed?? Because the next time i see him coming i want to leave him behind.lol

Hmm...perhaps my math is off, but 33 miles in under 2 hours equates to something like a 17mph average...that's pretty darn impressive IMO. Heck, a few weeks back I rode 38 miles and it took me almost 3 hours!!! Now granted, I was riding in a hellacious headwind...but still...3 freakin' hours!!!! Today we rode 85 miles and it took us 5 hours, 50 mins. Again...a strong headwind for 42 miles can really sap the energy right out of you. Even with a 20mph tailwind on the way back home, I still felt totally gassed.
You should be proud of the speed you're riding at...keep up the good work!

Linda

[ctdancer]

You're doing fine ! 17mph is very respectable....speed comes with time in the saddle be patient you'll get to where you want to be

[marni]

You're doing fine ! 17mph is very respectable....speed comes with time in the saddle be patient you'll get to where you want to be

I would love to be able to average 17 mph anytime over more than just a short sprint.

marni

[Catrin]

I would love to be able to average 17 mph anytime over more than just a short sprint.

marni

Same here. I have pedaled as high as 19.8 mph - but that was during intervals and not sustainable for me - as yet.

[TrekTheKaty]

I find it's just like running. The more hill rides and long distance rides I do, the better my average speed on the shorter rides is. Just keep riding. I've been trying to catch my husband for year's. Unfortunately, he is increasing in fitness as fast as me!