etw

I have been trying to gradually increase riding and the mileage. I was hoping to do a metric century ride this weekend or next with the goal of a century at the end of June. Unfortunately, due to weather, work, family, etc (all the usual culprits) I am not quite as far along as I had hoped. My longest rides have been 40 miles with no real problems. (Last year my longest was 55 miles)

Any reason why I couldn't do a metric this weekend, or would it be best to wait another week or so? I don't want to push myself past what would make sense, but this is new territory for me so I would rather ask for advice from those with more experience.

unterhausen

yes, you can do it.

ThermionicScott 

You definitely can, and I'm sure the only challenge is mental. Break up the ride into 15-20 mile chunks separated by breaks so you never have the entire 62.1 miles staring you in the face at once.

Italuminium

Just done an imperial (charity ride) with many unprepared riders (some of them on a road bike for the first time) and they all finished - they were just in considerable more pain than the trained riders. Just have fun, keep yourself hydrated and before you know it you're there.

etw

Cool. That is what I was thinking. I just wanted to make sure I was not off base. Thanks for the comments!

ks1g

Go for it. Take it a mite easier (not a race), especially at the beginning, and stay on top of hydration & food appropriate to the conditions and what has worked for you in the past. Remember to enjoy it! The rough rule of thumb I believe is if you have done 75% of the event distance, fitness & motivation will get you the rest of the way (many century training plans have a 75-ish mile ride 1-2 weeks before the big event as a final prep & check). 40 to 60 is a bit larger jump, but you've done closer before and it's not like you are new to all this. Caveat if your riding has been on flat terrain and the event is hilly (my 1st metric!) - low gears and lots of patience are your friends!

etw

I ended up doing the metric a few weeks back and it went well. Since then I have done a few weekend rides in the 40-54 mile range. I am hoping to get out on some good rides in the next few days with the possibility aiming for a century in a couple of weeks.

brianogilvie 

Good for you!

Richard Cranium

Yes Grasshopper - you are indeed filled with clarity this great and generous day!!!! My sense and your sense must one day unite in a cosmic meeting understanding of time, distance and the meaning of life.

May you have the most joyous ride this very week end - and may your joy be found when the miles you have ridden outnumber the demons that plague you mind.