I'm an avid cyclist and I LOVE my bike. I started cycling maybe 2 years ago? I started with an entry level, hybrid, cr@ppy little bike and once I proved to myself that I was actually going to ride and get serious I majorly upgraded. I bought the 2012 cannondale synapse road bike about 9 months ago.
My legs are definitely stronger from cycling - my quads specifically.
I do endurance rides and HIIT for triathlon training.
I average 17 mph currently and I'm training to do 18mph. My HIIT is usually a 17mph'ish base and a 21mph 30 second sprint. On a good week I average 50+ miles. Biking is my thing, though. I can't clear my head when I run or do anything else. I clear my head when I ride and feel at peace.
I am doing a 45 mile race/ride next weekend called Up The Creek Without a Pedal.
hilarious name! I'm hoping to finish sub 2:45.
Let me say though - I did not start there. I started riding for 30 minutes as fast as I could - which was probably 12-13mph. I went around three times a week. I struggled...a lot. Now I can't get enough. lol
Happy to answer any questions!