When the last of the little group I rode with at the time reached age 70 we discussed what we could do now to prolong riding for as long as possible and might get even more enjoyment from it. Over a typically two-hour cafe lunch during our weekly group ride, we came up with the following suggestions and agreed to try them and then hold a review a month or so later.
Ride slower. This would be a new experience. It would allow us to take in more of the scenery. It would eliminate the chance of being ticketed for speeding. It would place less demand on our much slower reactions, poorer eyesight and hearing.
Stop more often. On a day ride, stop for 'morning and afternoon tea', a leisurely lunch, and if something of special interest cropped up.
Stop at all intersections. That means for STOP signs, GIVE WAY signs and when there are no rule signs. It gives time to look around carefully and slowly and lessens the need to look back over a shoulder with stiff necks.
When the review was held we all agreed that our rides had become more enjoyable, less tiring and less stressful.
We had already been keeping pace with traffic flows but when alone on country roads now we often cruise along at 80 or 90 km/h and love it. Such a change of pace would've been un-imagineable a few years ago but somehow we all made it to old age by a combination of skill and luck.
Our group rides are typically for three to six and we have few rules: We don't overtake each other; we ride at least 70 or 80m apart but always keeping the light of the following rider in sight; when stopping at an intersection we stop abreast, not in line astern, and we don't leave the group without telling another member. It works.
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