Your absolutely right about it being addictive. The other poster was saying he felt proud about doing 35 miles today until he read what I did , but I think ,we must never feel deflated when we see someone who can either go faster or cycle further. Their are many many more cyclists who can leave me for dust and I use this fact to be inspired by them, by knowing I can still improve on my fitness and stamina to their level. I to once felt somewhat deflated if somebody could cycle faster or further , but I now go by my own standards and look upon myself as I'm the only one who I need to compete with.
Its all about setting yourself goals and smashing them and don't worry what others can do. This time last year I was over the moon that I did 16 mile and then doing a 20. If anybody who's new to cycling I hope this message inpires you to enjoy it and improve against your personal goals..
Oppps I think the Guinness is talking now. ( I better shut up:-)