daihard 

I rode the Seven Hills of Kirkland today.

I picked the shortest route (40 miles with 7 hills, with a 3,000-ft climbing elevation). I rode with a few other guys who are far, far more experienced than I am. I wasn't sure how I could keep up with them before we started. In the end, I did okay. I'm sure they set a good pace for me. Otherwise, I would have run out of gas before the goal.

What made me proud of myself was the hills - I was able to climb all the hills with relative ease - at least without running out of breath or stopping. I'm sure the granny gear (32T) helped, but I'm still happy.

But boy, those guys I rode with - they were FAST on descents. I had a real hard time keeping up with them there, and I was doing 35 MPH! I will need to start practicing riding downhill.

It's been a great experience for me. Not only has it been a lot of fun, it has encouraged me to keep riding and training - 'cause the more I do, the better I get.

Panza

Grats on the ride! I hope you have many more to come.

I remember my first ride and my many rides after that, while I could keep up I was more focused on trying not to ruin the pace line and learn the rules of the pack. People constantly telling me things to do or not do. : ) All parts of them teaching me to be a gentlemanly rider. Soon you shall learn well too. Ride fast, ride smart, ride safe!

daihard 

Thanks! I will definitely sign up for more rides. There's already one coming up in two weeks, followed by the big one in July (Seattle to Portland).

Those guys I rode with told me the basics of how to ride in a pace line - things like how not to brake suddenly, how to point to and shout about hazards, how not to cross wheels, etc. I've got a lot to learn, but it was fun!