You list your bikes as "a couple junkers." Not sure what that means (cruiser? box-store mountain bike?) but a lighter bike and/or a lower gear (spin, don't mash) might do wonders. Might also reexamine your bike's fit. My point is if you really do enjoy it there are other possibilities to explore before throwing in the towel.
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A race bike in any era is a highly personal choice that at its "best" balances the requirements of fit, weight, handling, durability and cost tempered by the willingness to toss it and oneself down the pavement at considerable speed. ~Bandera