It seemed harder last year, when I rode my age (59) without building up gradually. That ride seemed really "I'm getting too old for this" tough.

But I rode a lot this spring, and now I'm doing that same ride every week, and it feels the easiest it's been for years.

Other possible reasons it seems easier:

1. I've learned to keep my effort below a certain threshold.
2. I've discovered this drug called "caffeine." One cup every 30 miles.