I'm not a speedster, but I can do slow and steady and stubborn with the best of them. So, I have my bike to build fitness, strength, endurance - all that good stuff, and I have determination. I figure I'll be ready for a metric century by late July and then a real 100 miler by the end of October.
Right now I'm riding a trek navigator 100, I recognise that it isn't the fastest bike around, but it is solid and sturdy and the gearing is very flexible. I figure that at the least, I can build the all important fitness base. If I must, I will then get a more suitable bike as my training intensifies.
I have joined a gym to help maintain my fitness over the winter, and I try to get out as the weather permits. I'm getting quite excited about the possibilities.
I would welcome hints and perhaps some internet training buddies.
Actually, I have gotten much braver than I used to be, I will now risk biking in mild slush and snow. It is great what having a goal does for me.