Texasplumr

Since I just got into this sport in May, I realize that improvement is going to take time. I keep getting stronger with every ride and I keep track with Strava.
My favorite place to ride is the Veloway, here in Austin. (you can google it) It's 3 miles of pavement where you don't have to worry about cars, pedestrians, lights or stop signs.
Well, this morning it was cool and I'd just set another personal best and was feeling pretty good about myself. As I'd just finished my best loop and was starting around again a guy passes me, which isn't unusual. At the 1 1/2 mile mark he passes me again! And when I finished he passed me again! Jeeez I had to laugh. Kinda put things into perspective for me.
It was nice that he parked next to me and I got a chance to talk to him. He is a nice young man who has been riding his whole life. He offered me tons of encouragement and assured me the speed will surely come if I just keep up the training. And like he said:" at least you're out here". I liked that.

Of course I don't ever hope to be able to keep up with riders like him. But I'm getting better and I'm finding out that we're all pretty nice people!

David Bierbaum

I bet he just pedaled to a spot beyond your view, hid in the bushes till you passed, then followed you. You were going so fast, that he was only able to pass you three times this way!

Timtruro

Some of the best parts of biking have absolutely nothing to do with speed. As you no doubt already discovered.

Dudelsack 

As someone has said, there are two classes of cyclists: those who are faster than me, and me.

qcpmsame 

He was courteous and talked with you afterwards. That puts him head and shoulders above a lot of roadies I ride with and know. Like his encouragement, too.

Bill

Artkansas 

That explains it. I've been riding all my life, but myself as a young man could ride rings around me now. The only measure that matters is smiles per mile.