I learned the hard way last year that it does indeed pay to build slowly but surely. I was taught to never increase more than 15% per week for my 'long ride" and no more than 10-15% for monthly mileage increase. My other rides during the week will be a bit shorter.

I am champing at the bit wanting to ride more than that, but today I only rode 25 miles, my long ride next week won't be longer than around 27.5 or so. My legs and body thank me for that and feel much better than if I were trying to push it harder than that. I may not have much riding experience, but my over-use injuries of last year are well remembered.

Just something for you to consider...