I'm just getting into biking, not really interested in racing more into touring. I just ordered The Complete Book of Long-Distance Cycling. My instinct is to just ride as often as possible and see how much I can progress. My question is to those of you who are more seasoned then me(which is anyone riding more then a month) is that the best way to start?

I think you are correct. The best way to start is just to ride. Ride long, ride short, ride hard, ride easy. Just ride.

That's definitely the best way to progress. As often as possible, but with adequate rest/recovery days.

Like you, I'm primarily a recreational endurance rider. I mix things up in my training with one or two long rides a week and a couple of shorter, more intense sessions like wind sprints or hill repeats.

My plan is an hour or so every week night and two on Saturday, I think that's all my legs will take right now. I still want to include 3 HIIT workouts a week, we will see if this old body will tolerate that much activity.

find a group! you will learn a TON, hopefully meet some people, and get into longer rides sooner. most clubs have supported group rides, where they will bring extra tubes/water/whatever for newbies. it's a good way to push yourself while still having a support net.

That sounds really ambitious. Do you mind me asking what exactly you mean by HIIT workouts? Tabatas?

I've been using Kettlebells for several years, mostly ballistic movements, snatches, swings and such. I follow 1:00 on .30 rest 8-12 rounds.

Sounds dangerous on a bike. You must have very good balance.

Don't forget to take rest days.