Originally Posted by donki
. I'm a couple of stone overweight although I'm hoping the touring might make an impression on that. I've recently bought a touring bike - Raleigh Venture GT and have panniers front and back and most of the equipment I'll need already. I am 58 and although I have never been in a cycling club of any sort I have usually commuted by bike and have at various times (throughout my 40's) done century rides - I even did 200 miles overnight once.
Couple of stone is 28Lbs (For Our US Readers) That will soon go with training and what is left will provide carbo hydrates for the ride. Not certain on the bike but I'll look at it somewhen. 58 means that you will have to train for endurance but at our age we do that very Well. (I'm 59) You have to start riding soon and from what I can remember Cambridge is pretty flat. You'll have to find some hills. Main thing is to start riding now. Get yourself up to 50mile rides and until you get to that don't ride every day. one day's riding- and at least one day's rest. Unless you get day rides in- Get yourself a GOOD set of lights- Front and rear. This is so you can see and be seen.
That should take you up to the new year. Didn't say which year so take it carefully at first so you build up gradually. One thing you must sort out quick is the saddle. For the trip you are planning- a good saddle is necessary. Give the current one a month and if you can still feel it after that time- start looking at the Old Tyme favourite- A Brooks. Don't use one myself but others here can advise you.
On the bike- Tried to find it but can't so post a picture- and give the spec of the bike so we can suggest any upgrades.
Main thing for your trip is to get riding- riding and riding.
NOW