First Ride - Slow

[lpjr]

Hello. Took my new bike (Orbea Mud cylclocross bike - very nice) for its first proper outing the other evening, following a few very small test rides. I went from Chorley to Rivington Barn via White Coppice and return. Having not been on a bike properly for about 13 years and back then I use to do mountain biking, I was very happy with the new bike. I was especially impressed on how it tackles the hills, there is one on this route which I thought I would be walking but just about managed it.

Just a couple of points. This route was only 16.5 miles. It took me 1 hour 22 mins which works out at 12.11 mph. Although this route is hilly I was slightly disappointed with the average time, as for when I start my commute I want to be at 15 mph. Is there a big difference between times on hilly routes and lesser hilly routes? I always assumed the times would equal out, what you lose on the hill you would get back zooming down the other side.

The zooming down hills that I mentioned also needs practice. I thought this would be the easy bit. I was very quickly at a pace which was too quick for me and the pending corners, I was then trying to take the speed off without locking the back wheel or juddering the front. I did think I was going to crash out on my first ride but managed to escape it.

Overall I enyoyed it very much. Got a 23 mile route planned that will take in Winter Hill. I am working on the theory that if I train on the hills it will make everything else seem easier. Any tips welcome.

 

[palinurus]

First of all welcome. It's great when you get a new bike isn't it?

Is there a big difference between times on hilly routes and lesser hilly routes?

The simple answer is yes, usually quite a big difference.

Training on hills will help you improve but the most important thing now is to ride, and ride frequently.

 

[palinurus]

And have fun

 

[Reluctant cyclist]

I think duration is the key. Don't worry about the hills, they will get easier, all in good time. Gradually build up your mileage but don't get carried away until the threat of being saddle sore has passed, then build on that.

I wouldn't worry about averages either. Hills, head wind, traffic, stopping for breaks etc all have an effect on average speeds. To average 15 mph at this stage is, I think, a little ambitious.

 

[SMD]

I always assumed the times would equal out, what you lose on the hill you would get back zooming down the other side.

Doesn;t work like that.
Take a 2 mile hill where you are down to 8mph. It will take 15 minutes to climb
But at say 24 mph downhill it would only take 5 minutes
So you are 3 times as long slogging uphill and the average speed up and down is 12mph, not 16mph

 

[palinurus]

On the club hilly time trial I'm about 2-3 mph slower than over a similar distance flattish course, and our hilly time-trial course isn't even all that hilly. It's got one short, sharp bastard and that's about it.

 

[palinurus]

For heavier riders the difference is even greater since they generally go quicker on the flat but have less advantage uphill.

 

[lpjr]

For heavier riders the difference is even greater since they generally go quicker on the flat but have less advantage uphill.

 

[lpjr]

As a heavier rider that makes me feel better. Did a 14 .3 mile hilly route yesterday and got my speed up to 13.27. As a beginner I am quite happy with that. Just need to build up the distance now.