Karen and all our riders:

I echo Mike’s sentiments…we always appreciate feedback from our riders.  It is what has allowed us to grow into one of the most popular club rides.  Trying to design a ride for a segment of the riding world is not always easy.  We are blest with some terrific roads in the area and we try to take advantage of them in laying out the routes.  We are always looking for routes that will work for the groups we have…so please keep talking to us.

Tony

Hi Karen:

Tony asked me to replay to your email.  First thanks for your comments.  With the longer days the intermediate rides have also become longer.  Given that you are likely riding somewhere around 10-12 mph you should have no trouble in finishing the ride before light becomes an issue.  I agree that the 25 miles last night might have been a bit long.  But remember everyone can go at whatever speed they want and do.  I agree that some of those on my ride do go fast.  I have asked them to move up to Tom’s ride, however they continue to want to do my ride.  Last night’s ride was a bit more challenging than usual and several people turn off the route and made a ride of their own.  I had to make the route different due to several of the roads in the area had fresh oil/gravel. 

I try to make most of the rides at this time of year around 18-20 and there may be one or two small climbs.  Most have improved their fitness level and while may complain about the short climbs they don’t seem to have much trouble.

I nearly always state at the beginning that if you want to go slower just do it because I will be there with you.

Hope you aren’t discouraged from doing the intermediate ride.  You can get better by challenging yourself a little each time you ride.

Mike