Originally Posted by
FBinNY
Long is whatever it means to the individual involves. There are people who think about 5 miles the same way some think about 50 or a hundred or more. But in a general sense, I'd say anything that takes more than 2 hours is long for most non-cyclists. (unless they're fit or do other sports)
Precisely!
Some people on the clyde's forum make heroic efforts to get a couple miles, at first. Every bit of progress is something to be celebrated.
TO get the OP's question.
I would you're normal weekly total is doable on similar terrain if they're smart about it and willing to accept some discomfort as a one time effort. Day after day riding is not to be underestimated, fatigue build up. If he feels good at the end of the week, he's doing well.
Some tips:
Make sure you and your equipment is comfortable,
You have the ability to fix minor things.
Lots of fluid
plenty of carbs little bits over time.
get off the saddle every once in a while
patience and breaks, it's not a race...
preserve energy, don't sprint or exert yourself once over target speed.
switch up hand positions and cadence...
I tend to make the same mistakes, I drink a lot, but sweat far more. I blow out on hills then I'm spent. I eat too infrequently. breaks are too long. Oh, and I forget things and am terrible at navigation... I'm sure I make more mistakes, but eventually I get home. (so I carry lights, cause well never know when I'll be out after dark.)