I set out with the mindset of doing 50 miles. I figured it was time to test some longer mileage since I can handle the regular 40-mile ride in the morning without much difficulty. This is a classical trial by fire mentality which is prevalent among cycling. About 20' into the ride, I was passed by a group of three, and decided, 'what the heck' and tagged onto the back as the ticketpuncher. The guys were riding good tempo, and I did my best to hang on and not pop. I was pretty impressed as I held on for a good solid 40 or so minutes. Beyond, that though, I felt it was time to watch them ride away as we were headed for a small climb, and I really start to suffer when the road tilts up a bit.

So, then it was back to solo riding, and I started to feel the real temperature as I was not in the draft anymore--chilly. I plugged on, though, and I started to feel the fatigue around 2 hours. At this point, I felt it was prudent to bypass the small climb home and opt for the bike path. The last hour was a good reminder of what the 40-mile ride used to feel like with the muscles around the hip/lower torso area needing some rest. I still managed to reach home with 52 miles on the odometer and just over 3 hours on the clock thanks to some nifty drafting.

I also found out that I have to send my powertap in for service, as it has become inaccurate, so I have no numbers for you on the ride. In some ways, I think it's good, because I can just focus on pedaling and not the wattage for riding. I also think that I'm close to being able to join some group rides, which can help push me a bit to give me some more vigorous cardio workout.

However, today, I think I might be a little wobbly on the staircase......