What we talk about when we talk about speed

[lordofthemark]

In a discussion of pedal options, the thread starter says he rides at 11MPH. Judd says that when threadstarter gets to 14MPH, he will be in good company. Also note, most group rides are charecterized by an expected speed.

But. This morning, per strava, on a short flat segment, in ideal conditions (perfect temp, no wind(?) sort of drafting Jeanne, and perhaps with momentum from before the segment, I did 21MPH (PR, yay! (and yeah, I know, GPS can be sketchy so that may not be real)) But in more usual circumstances, on longer almost flat segments, I ride more like 14MPH to maybe 16 or 17MPH. But on my entire commute to work (whether measured from home at Park Center, or from Shirlington) I have yet to break 13MPH. And more often than not, average (per strava) under 12.5. Some combination of modest hills, awkward turns and sidewalks, and stopping for red lights (strava only cuts off after 20 seconds stopped). But also, I will admit, because I get tired and slow down after a certain point (more of an issue on the way home, generally).

So – I am sure I am NOT a 20MPH rider. But am I a 14MPH rider? Or a 12MPH rider? There are a lot group rides advertised at around 14MPH, and I am generally hesitant to sign up.

Topic

[Vicegrip]

@f148vr 162324 wrote:

One point I like to make is that first priority in a group ride is knowing how to ride in a group, and not how fast to ride.

True that. A 14 mph no drop type ride might be a good place to learn the in and outs of being a happy group rider too.

[lordofthemark]

@Vicegrip 162334 wrote:

True that. A 14 mph no drop type ride might be a good place to learn the in and outs of being a happy group rider too.

I’ve learned that in even slower group rides

[Author]

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