Thanks for all the encouragement! It made it a lot easier to get up at 5am this morning to ride in knowing I'd be reporting back here. That said, I road in this morning, the whole way. Seems as if mornings are easier, probably due to the temperature. I had no problems, rode the 18 miles in two hours. I think I need to make some improvements to the bike, however. It doesn't coast, at all. The rear seems heavy, too. I only have semi-slicks on it, I think I should upgrade to full slicks.

I feel good, but my poor arse is definitely hurting!