So i am in norwalk for 5 more weeks for job training and the apt complex where i'm staying nixed the idea of bringing my mtn bike into my apt, so here I am with a perfectly good road bike looking for some nice rides. My apt is basically at the intersection of rt 15 and rt 7 and today i went exploring on the residential streets around my neighborhood. Next weekend (yes, work keeps me very busy during the week) I'd like to go for a little longer ride (think 30-40 miles). Any nice long relatively traffic free roads in the area? i'm willing to drive a little ways, provided there's parking available (ie: don't want to just leave my car on side of road and start riding).

Alternately, if anyone in the area wants to go for a ride with a very slow rider (think 5 months off the bike and wasnt in that great of shape to begin with) and show me the area please feel free to PM me.

Check out this route starting in Westport which, from the description of where you're staying, is only 2 exits north on the Merritt. There is a commuter parking lot right next to the exit (north side of Merritt) where you can leave your car.

http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=98933

My mother-in-law lives nearby to this route and I rode it several times last spring while training for the Central CT MS Ride. The route has a fair amount of climbing and is pretty rural considering it's Fairfield County. Be sure to take the turn onto Ford Rd after mile 22. It has a nice steep (but very short) climb to end the loop.

Cheers,
PCM