Originally Posted by
jskita
In general, it's good to hear that taking breaks is Ok and everyone feels pains here and there is encouraging. I just got the sense that everyone was riding hundreds of miles and I wasn't able to for some reason.
You're 50+ - you've earned a break!
Typically on group rides we'll re-group/short break every 5 - 10 miles or so - or at the top of significant climbs - as long as we're not too stretched out. I try to pick group rides where I'll be in the middle of the pack - or I'll offer to lead a slower group if the ride is full of riders stronger than me.
On solo rides I'll try to find a nice coffee stop at about the 20 mile point - my reward. 30 to 35 mile rides are about right for me in terms of time and effort required.
Pick an achievable/enjoyable goal and hit it.