My eight-year-old has set a lofty goal of riding a century--I plan to ride with him. Over the past year he's done a couple of 50 miler's and can't seem to get enough. Seems with a reasonable training plan and a little help from me it may actually be possible for him. He's a couple weeks into preparations and I'm struggling to plan a good route for him--I could use some help.
I don't actually think enabling an 8-year-old to try an 100 mile ride is a good idea. onl
y one good thing can happen - but dozens of bad outcomes are possible......
However this may be the best way to claim a "first century ride" for the future champion......
Go to your previous 50 mile route. but start the ride in the afternoon. Go home, comeback early the next morning and complete the route again -
before the previous day's starting time.. There you have it --- 100 miles in less than 24 hours - and much less chance of injury.
If this doesn't appeal - at least setup some alternate test of endurance with rest to be sure the child won't hurt himself. I have no proof - but I just think eight could be a little young - although I can see trying it for 10 and up.