Road Cycling - 50 Mile Ride. Not!

Last Friday, July 27, I really felt like riding, so off I went about 6:00 am on my regular route. The air was cool, clean and smelled so good. After about 6 miles a fawn and doe deer crossed the road in front of me. I finally stopped at Mile 22 for some water and a short rest. Then I decided I would try to go for 50 miles. Well, I went another 23 miles and stopped again. The morning cool was gone and now it was very, very hot. I actually was back at my vehicle but could not do another 5 miles. My water was gone and so were my legs. (They are 73 year old legs). The lung power was there, but not the legs. I think if the weather had been cooler I might have been able to finish. I plan to keep trying but will wait for cooler weather in early September. I am averaging between 25 and 35 miles a day weather permitting. Love it.

Originally posted by Rider72
I am averaging between 25 and 35 miles a day weather permitting. Love it.


Way to go dude. I know how you feel about the legs being gone and not being able to go another inch.Heck, we ALL know what that is like.

Rider72,
That's outstanding!! You're an inspiration to us all. :beer:
I hope I can do 45 miles when I'm as "young" as you. :thumbup:
I'm only 56 and some days 45 miles is all I can do.
Remember, cycling keeps you young. Just enjoy what you're doing.

Keep up the good work and drink LOTS of water.

Great job :)
I just completed my first 50 mile ride a week ago and my first ever metric century this weekend so I know exactly how you feel. You are truly an inspiration to us all.

What an inspiration. I just hope that I am still on the bike at 73! Keep going so I have an even higher goal to reach.

My dad is 62 and got a bent last year I will tell him about you so he will make sure to get out more.
Thanks.

Air5head

And a particular inspiration to me! Way to go.

After we move to Provence, and I do a year of climb training (there are not many hills in this part of Holland :) ), I plan to climb Mont Ventoux on my bike. I will only be about 63 by then, but since I just started cycling a few months ago, that is still a somewhat daunting prospect.

Bt the way, Rider72, we moved here from Milford, NH last October. Where are you located?

And I think it is great that you are shown as a Junior Member. ;)

My dad is 62 and got a bent last year I will tell him about you so he will make sure to get out more.


Tell your dad that I will be 62 in November, and I did not start riding until age 58.5 I now have 6,450 miles on my mtn bike and 5,200 on my road bike, and have done two Ride the Rockies and several centuries. Tell him that if I can do it, anyone can. It is great exercise, and is very relaxing. I also just bought a 10/5 watt dual light for my mtn bike so I can ride at night during the dark season.

Encourage him to get out. Ride with him. Have him contact me if he wants to get support or has any questions.

Good for your dad!!

All you guys are inspirational to this 51-year-old whippersnapper. :D

Congrats. You need more fluids! One water bottle per hour minimum. Fill one with water and another with an electrolyte replacement--gatorade, cyto. etc. cut in half as they are too syrupy tasting when you are exercising hard. This will help your legs keep going. also, consume 80 grams of carbo within 1/2-1 after your ride--will help prevent soreness and will replenish for your next outing. Stay strong, keep it up. (all info from my USCF certified coach)