Endurance Ride

Being in the "pre-season" phase, I really want to focus on putting in time on the seat.  I want to get a little more comfortable on the bike (i.e. posture, pedal technique, drinking, eating and mainly building up my ass cheeks for the soreness that inevitably comes with hours on a bike).  I also want to work on my control and maneuverability on the bike while I can still get outside. The goal of this morning is to get my legs moving for my longest ride on record.

Palisades Interstate Park Commission: Court. Quick water bottle refill and half a vega sport bar before brining it home.

The Map (out-and-back):

Head up the west side of Manhattan

Cross the G.W. Bridge

Head up Henry Hudson Dr.

The Distance:

Unfortunately, today I am a little constrained for time so I will be watching my watch more than my overall distance.  Ideally, I would like to put in 30+ miles in 2-3 hours.  I know this course can be a little challenging for me based on the sheer number of people and the grade of some of the hills.

That may be one of my highest max speed metrics. My pace definitely suffered through the grueling inclines.

The Results: 

Distance: 37 miles

Time: 02h51m10s

Rest: 00h16m05s

Avg. Pace: 04m39s/mile

Avg. Speed: 12.9 mph

Looking at some of the stats after my ride. One thing I love about Tri training, the toys and stats.

My Thoughts:

All around, I was pretty happy with my effort.  I had planned 30+ miles in 2-3 hours and made it almost 40.  The inclines were killer and I found myself struggling in the lightest gear.  Definitely was a workout for my cardiovascular system.  I will definitely repeat that one.  If anyone is close to Manhattan, I recommend hoping over the bridge and taking this ride, gorgeous in the fall.

Have you ridden on Henry Hudson Dr? What did you think? Let me know in the comments below.