FYI, I've ridden the Hudson Greenway many times before this trip. Typically, I start on the Brooklyn side of the Brooklyn Bridge and ride the Greenway as far as the 79th Street Boathouse Restaurant. If I'm alone, I'll sometimes continue north and go over the GWB onto the River Road, along the palisades.
I agree that it can be slow-moving, but I'm in no hurry. Once the ride is over, all there is to do is go home and sit in front of the computer!