I believe I would call this post a need for a pep talk haha. I am around 200 miles YTD. As a graduating Master’s student (thesis defense, paper submitting) I am finding it hard to find time to ride, and when I do find time I am exhausted. The lack of prep miles last year (first time) hit me hard. averaged 12 mph and around 8-10 hour days. that wasn’t from being leisurely, but from stopping so often…I am sure the heat didn’t help my case. I am a farely large clyde, on the order of 265 and 6’4″, so I was puffing and sputtering accross the sate last year. I was/am determined not to repeat my fate, but have become concerned that it is inevitable at this point. I just couldnt justify riding my bike when my career was on the line.
Yes I know better time management may have solved the problem more effectively, but either way I am where i am now and need to get a move on. Just had to get that off my chest.
P.S. I havent even had the chance to train on consumption or kurb sitting so I am in rough shape…
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If we were talking a race, triathalon, marathon, or something else competitive, that would be one thing. But we are talking about a guy who is thinking out loud about his putting off the serious part of training and hoping it won’t hurt him too badly when he gets on the trail at Ragbrai. The post is very interesting because it describes a huge number of people who will ride this year (myself included – I keep putting off the bigger, longer rides…..).
Scorn, sarcasm, and then, as a backup, “I wasn’t serious”……just not a great thing to see on the forum. But, it IS entertaining.
I work with people who are full of themselves – and they have their few admirers………with an emphasis on the word FEW. Yet, they always seem to stay the same and get the same attention. Why? They require attention.
I don’t like bullies or braggerts – never did. But some not only like ’em, they admire ’em!
Life is funny that way.
Ohio Cyclone – hope I see you on the ride – maybe have a beer or two before hitting the rollers. The other guy – well, he rides with a different crowd – so no worries!
WAIT, that means I’m no longer a Clydesdale!?!? Wow. I’m guess I’m a svelte biker dude now.
I’m still keeping the GiantRon moniker though.
Or it means you can eat more during RAGBRAI…
SSC1, your helmet is crooked. So is your logic. The man wanted a pep talk, not a pity party. If you’re proud to be out of shape, then that’s your problem. And Sam, you haven’t got a clue what I know. My grandmother had a fantastic saying that maybe some of you should learn: “What you eat doesn’t make me fat.”
Get it?
Seriously, we don’t need di*ks like you in Iowa, Roberto. Stay away.
What are you talking about?
Helmet in the picture – yup!
Out of shape? Where did I say that? Let’s see you swim 1000 yards with flip turns in under 14 minutes.
Sheesh……
I guess we can add mocking and personal attacks to the list……..but…..one only need look at your first response.
Ragbrai has all kinds doesn’t it?!
Just remember. It’s. Your vacation. Have fun. It’s. Not. A. Race!!!!!
I like the the jaunty helmet. Just saying…. ; )
When I roll into Alton I’ll show you jaunty – ha!
Are we riding through Alton?
Amanda – thanks!
Sam – don’t worry about it – he didn’t read carefully enough to see you were using wry humor to poke fun at having dropped in to a lower category. Knee jerk reaction without full understanding. Happens a lot to people who are sometimes on the insecure side.
I love the fact it is NOT a race. I average about 14-15 mph on Ragbrai (at least I did last year). When the animals come zipping by in a line at 22-25, even up the hill (!!!) it is sometimes a bit depressing. Still – it’s a great feeling to finish the day before 2 PM – or sooner – and that’s with a stop in each town to enjoy all the offerings.
I was serious about the swimming though. I may be overweight, but I still swim nearly every day – usually 1500-3000 yards (I was a competitive swimmer in high school and in the Masters following college). The triatheletes who work out at my club are mostly runners/bikers learning to become better swimmers. I have great fun pacing them – and it’s nice to be included in their discussions. Sadly – they kick my ass at the other two areas!!!
What kind do you need? Sounds like a personal issue.
Boy, this one has been better than the bandit topics in past.
Nearly as good as the “Ban Beer” thread a few years ago.