Don't know what the councils are playing at. They are obviously trying to save money but the amount of salt that is actually coming out of the back of the gritters just now is pathetic. The bit they gritted last night was still icy this morning.Canned this mornings cycle after hitting serious black ice just outside my house. Went sideways and ended up on my back side, fortunately helmet saved me as I hit my head off pavement. No major damage done, just been off phone to the local council re: their lack of gritting. Fingers crossed for tomorrow....
. Time in the saddle will boost your stamina. Build up slowly, 4 miles is fine. Set yourself a realistic target. Do 5 tomorrow, don't race it. Steady as you go. Your legs will soon toughen up. You will be surprised at how resilient the body is, especIally at your young age! Try and keep the bug up though in your mind, keeping your interest and enjoyment from cycling is key. Keep up the good work fella 
Well, when I say it gets easier it would do if you quit when it hurts at 45 miles instead of being macho & carrying on to do the 50. (ouch, my thighs hurt!!)I think we can all remember that feeling, keep it up & it will get easier!
Goonerobes I see you are in the New Forest area. I am doing the much hated (by the locals) Wiggle Spring Sportive there. Do you know what the route is like regarding hills and the like.
I did the 40 mile route in October last year as per this: http://www.strava.com/activities/87044109 & depending on which day Sky TV make Arsenal play I hope to do it again this year.
