Originally Posted by banerjek

Months -- I've found saddle conditioning is not an issue. Nor do I have problems with back, hands, etc. on the few times when I do go long. Having said that, I normally ride 5 days/week so that even if the distance isn't there, there's some opportunity for my body to adapt.

I find that shorts matter on long rides. Some of the really cheap ones can leave me feeling kind of sore if I'm out too long. Also, saddle has to be adjusted properly.

Given your old and new routines, I'd be surprised if you notice much change in your fitness. I reduced cycling by about 80% from what it was a couple years ago and the overall impact has been much smaller than I would have guessed. My experience is that moderate exercise yields a massive benefit, and that working your ass off improves things, but the diminishing returns curve is steep.