Originally Posted by
roadfix
The older folks like myself just run a front brake. It's so much easier, all around.
If the ride involves a lot of long, high speed descents, I take my single speed instead.
+1 Brakes are your friends. Above 130-140 rpm, I start bouncing in the saddle.
OP, start scrubbing speed BEFORE you get going too fast. Just take the hill nice and slow. As you gain more experience, you'll be able to increase your speed and still remain in control of the bike. I highly recommend a brake, though. A brake will help you scrub speed and allow you to control the bike better.