I've done a few pieces of the Erie Canal. You are right, it's not all that spectacular, and just a little TOO flat for me.

I will consider what you said about the amount of pre and post-ride travel time I'd be looking at. Maybe this ISN'T the right ride for me.

Also, I knew someone would comment about the "51 and only a few adventures left" part! After many years of professional drumming, followed by years of airplane travel literally every day, followed by my current job working on a production crew for outdoor concerts and festivals most of the year, my body is feeling beaten and worn down. I've got constant back and leg pain that is only eased, albeit temporarily, by cycling. Even then, I can only do so much before I pay for it when I get OFF the bike. Yeah, I'm still a spring chicken compared to many of the true road warriors here, but I know my limitations and I enjoy every minute of biking within them!