Originally Posted by
jackb
Cycling for speed is a specific form of cycling. I've never understood the need for speed. Other outdoor activities don't emphasize speed. I hike, but hiking fast is not a goal in the hiking world. I ski both cross country and downhill, but for most skiers, speed is not the goal. I also take walks, but most walkers are not striving for speed. I kayak and canoe, but neither of these activities emphasize speed. But with cycling, there is a lot of talk about "improving" one's speed. There is nothing wrong with this, it that's what one wants to do. But some people simply like to pedal around, fast, slow, or whatever. So whatever speed you like is the right one.
I prefer distance over speed on a bike any day. I'd much rather keep my own usual ~13 MPH average pace and go 40-50 miles or more than try to do 20 MPH the whole time and burn out after 10 miles. Part of the enjoyment of going places on a bike is the ability to slow down and actually enjoy the scenery, something that's hard to do with your head down trying to keep a 20 MPH pace in a peloton.