I don't mind a little soreness but not to the point of pain that keeps me off the bike the next day. I AM getting faster but it's a slow process for me for a number of reasons. I have a ways to go before I can join even a slow club ride.. I really don't know what my mileage for the season is, I was just guessing since I only got my computer about 2 weeks ago. 133mi. on the computer so that's about 10mi. a day. Some days no riding at all and some days are 20+ miles although I try to ride at LEAST 10mi. a day. I started in the spring riding just 2mi. a day and a 10mi. ride was a big deal. I also just bought a full cross country ski setup so when it gets cold and snowy I can still get outside and have some fun while improving strength and fitness. I'm sure the bike riding will help the leg muscles for cross country skiing which is an added bonus.