Pathetically slow? How long to improve?

[HipGnosis6]

There really is a difference. First, paved roads are usually better maintained, so it is safer and easier to ride faster (less potholes, cracks, debris to avoid). Second, roads are designed for faster traffic than paved trails.

Is the trail a multi-use trail, or is it intended JUST for bicycles? If it's multi-use, the picture changes significantly. If so, find out what the trail speed limits are; they may be much slower even than your "slow" pace! Why? To help protect the other users of the facility, which may include children, senior citizens, pets, etc etc.

I just took a very good class on bicycling on the road. Most urban areas have groups that sponsor such a thing - may I suggest you and your husband seek one out and take it together?

[Catrin]

You aren't the only one I am quite slow myself, averaging between 12-13 mph if there are hills - though I have seen my average get close to 15 without hills or much in the way of wind. Granted, my bike isn't the fastest bike out there, but I learned to ride only 10 months ago.

Since I am in the same place as you are I can't add anything constructive, just letting you know that you aren't alone with this.

[hirakukibou]

I started cycling at 46. I was quite slow. The first year I rode with a club, I was almost always the last rider or at least in the last five to get it. I just decided to keep with it and ride a lot. (That year I rode 6000 miles, and since then its been about 4500 per year.) It is now about 5 years later and I can finally really keep up with DH. After about year two, we could ride together without him being really grumpy at my plodding, but this year I felt I could hang on when he tried a break away.

My advice: Just ride a lot. Find others who are about your speed and train together if you can. Also, ride with some folks who are just a tad better than you are, as they will push you.

Have fun too!

Cheers,
Hirakukibou