Rydabent gas it about right. I was riding with a group of younger riders and it was getting harder- They got fitter and faster as I was beginning to slow down. Then on a hard ride last year I swore at them for waiting for me at the top of the hills. They were ruining their ride by stopping and I was pushing too hard to try and catch them so they didn't have to wait for me. That was a hard ride for me but made easier as I no longer pushed myself over the top and wore myself out. Kept within my capabilities and only finished 10 minutes behind them on a 4 hour ride.

Since then I have dropped the group and do my own ride in my time at my speed. At least I am still riding whereas IF I was attempting to ride with them-I would have given up as it was no longer enjoyable.

But on gears and bike technology--I am for all the assistance I can get. Plenty of gears so I can go lower for the hills and cruise in the higher ones. Triple or Compact does not bother me as I have Cassettes that will get me up the hills or closer ratios if flatland is involved. I can assure you that the 15lb bike is easier to pedal on the century rides up long hills but the 19 lbs "BLING" Pinarrello is just as good on 50 milers.

I have found in the last year that my bike riding has changed and that is not through fitness. That has gone down with age but I still get out- still enjoy it and do my my rides in my way and on bikes I enjoy riding.