Originally Posted by chipcom

If you are training for a tour, I don't see what the problem is. Touring isn't about speed, or hammering, or riding to keep your HR at some set point. Touring is about getting from point A to point B...daily - hopefully enjoying the ride and the places you are riding through.

If you are truly training for a tour, load up your bike with a touring load when riding with your friend...which will get you some realistic training at your friend's pace...effectively killing two birds with one stone.