Originally Posted by
AdelaaR
Honeydutch, first off ... not wanting to insult you or anything ... but I find it strange that a 20 year old calls 16 miles a "long ride".
16 miles may seem like a lot for a commuter, but for a cyclist this is peanuts.
Things like 100 miles are considered pretty short stages in cycling.
....
I disagree. For a new or newer rider and assuming the OP is such, whether a ride is long or not depends on the ability/experience of the rider, not the age. It is a moving target (hopefully upward!) for someone who has not cycled for a long period of time. I started less than a year ago and can now do 31 miles at 15.5 mph. When I do 40 (probably next weekend) that will be a long ride for me and will be a personal accomplishment. I'm sure there are 6' 225 lb. 45 year olds with the same level of experience that can kick my butt and some that cannot.
It sounds like the OP did a pretty nice job on this 16 mile jaunt and was held back by saddle comfort, a very common issue for newer riders. Keep up the good work. Your young age (assuming no physical liabilities) should allow you to improve quickly but you can be proud of your numbers so far.