Newbie weekly achievement thread [Archive] - Women's Cycling Discussion Forums

stella2

09-13-2010, 08:03 AM

Hi girls,
When I have my successes, it makes me want to come on here and share them with others new or newish to cycling. I also love to read the inspirational tales of success and progress of others :) So I wonder if it wouldn't be good to have a weekly successes thread?

Yesterday I managed to ride (drum roll . . .) my first corners :D broad sweeping ones, but hey, I was turning my bike. I could hardly believe it! I also seem to have finally mastered/mistressed stopping in a nice controlled way (apart from the odd crazy moment of panic e.g. wobbling into a bush, when I forget to use the brakes!). I also noticed I was feeling more confident and riding faster (no doubt connected).

I am thrilled to bits with this weeks progress and would love to hear about the progress of others :)

MrsHulley

09-13-2010, 08:27 AM

stella2

09-13-2010, 08:39 AM

I just bought a bike last week. My goal right now is to keep it upright :o
Once I feel I've mastered that, my next goal will be a graceful stop. Sad but true!!! Clipless will be later, later, later...... I keep telling myself small achievements are better than none at all. :p Not sad at all! I sat on a bike for the first about 3 weeks ago at the age of 51. 2 weeks ago, I was where you are. I only managed sensible stopping consistently a couple of rides ago. This stuff feels soooo difficult sometimes, like it will never come together, but it does, surprisingly quickly. Hang in there MrsHulley. Tell us next week about your progress :)

Roadtrip

09-13-2010, 09:35 AM

I rode for about an hour, just doing loops and practicing my turns, even feeling toward the end confidant to hit the peddles a little harder and build a little speed on the straight potions of my practice area. Crazy how 7-8 MPH can feel like your ZIIIIPPPPPING along. I know I'll get used to it, but right now the feeling of speed is exciting and frightening as the same time.

I moved to a new location (my office building with a huge parking lot) that is abandoned during the weekend. I found that there is a deceptive grade to the parking lot which added some challenge. I had to enter the turn as I was picking up speed. I learned if I feathered the breaks slightly I felt much more confidant about the turn, but not too much as I turned right into the up-slope and had to built speed to feel comfy.

I almost dropped myself to the pavement and had to come to an abrupt stop, so I had a little challenge getting myself going while on a slight grade, but I did it. It was also windy and feeling the wind hit me and having to adjust was a WHOLE new feeling that I really didn't enjoy, but as the hour drew on, I was better with it.

Good luck and lets keep riding!!
Shannon

hebe

09-13-2010, 10:22 AM

What a lovely idea for a thread, and how great to read everyone's successes. Good luck and welcome Mrs Hulley, I am a new wobbler too.

Nothing from me this week I'm afraid - dh has been doing 12hr days and then had a migraine :( so I've not been out since last week's lessons. Another lesson tomorrow, dd is booked into creche nice and early so I can get some warming up done first. There are a whole load of roadworks coming along and I really want to be able to ride the towpath into town.

stella2

09-13-2010, 10:33 AM

Hebe - what was your success last week?

hebe

09-13-2010, 10:46 AM

Finishing Bikeability stage 2 :) And I can do a better u-turn than my instructor. Just need to conquer the nerves now.

jelee1311

09-13-2010, 05:37 PM

I think this is a great idea. I am just coming back to riding after an injury.I rode for the first time in almost four months last Monday. I was only riding about eight months before I got hurt so I am still new at this. I look forward to posting and hearing about others triumphs.:D

Nessa

09-14-2010, 04:53 AM

My husband and I got bikes about 3-4 weeks ago. I've always worked out so I am in pretty good shape, but I'm 55 and the old engine go like it used too!!! Anyway, last Friday we went to North Little Rock and parked about 1.5 miles from the Big Dam Bridge. We rode over the bridge, which crosses the Arkansas River, back over the river to the Rivermarket area, ate, then back. This was a 23 mile ride! LOVED IT!

Here is the link to the Big Dam Bridge...it is such an awesome bike path!!!

http://www.bigdambridge.com/index.htm

hebe

09-14-2010, 06:38 AM

wow Nessa, the views from that bridge must be amazing! That sounds like a great ride.

I'm feeling very proud after my lesson, not least because I did everything in the wind and rain and got home more than a little damp. I did roundabout practice, then rode along the route that I use to take my daughter to soft play - it's up a hill and along quite a busy road on an industrial estate - lots of drives and carparks and lorries. No cycle lanes for most of it. Anyway, I was very proud of myself, as was my instructor. Then on the way back we stopped so that I could learn how to set off and stop without having my bum on the saddle. This always looked so easy but took a few goes! I need to get the hang of this or else drop the saddle, and I'd rather not drop the saddle.

Anyway. Next lesson in a fortnight to give me some time to practise. I'm going to drive to a nearby town and hire a bike and trailer for the towpath to see how I get on with dd in a trailer. My instructor is sure it would work for me so I'm going to swallow my reservations and give it a go.

How's everyone else doing?

stella2

09-14-2010, 07:11 AM

I did roundabout practice, then rode along the route that I use to take my daughter to soft play - it's up a hill and along quite a busy road on an industrial estate - lots of drives and carparks and lorries. No cycle lanes for most of it.
My God woman, you're a heroine :cool:

hebe

09-14-2010, 07:38 AM

:o I think I have a good instructor, but thank you. The big test will be cycling with my daughter. Every time I have a lesson it boosts my confidence no end. Don't you have another session coming up?

stella2

09-14-2010, 09:22 AM

I just go out practicing with my partner and I push myself a little more out of my comfort zone each time. I do Bikeability level one (apparantly all about control and riding around cones) on 28th.

Nessa

09-15-2010, 01:27 PM

This week.....I had my FIRST wreck! Don't know how, no clip-ins....just fell over and got a bloody elbow! I really feel like a cyclist now!

cricketk

09-15-2010, 11:25 PM

I went to a mountain-biking lesson last weekend and learned how to bunny-hop. I did not know how to pick up the front of the bike when we started the day. :) :) :)

hebe

09-21-2010, 01:09 PM

Not quite a riding success, but I found our Ordnance Survey Explorer map and have identified several bridleways and byways within easy reach. I found one today and went part way along on foot as I had my toddler walking, but I can't wait to try it on my bike! There is so much more off-road/quiet riding around here than I imagined.

Roadtrip

09-21-2010, 05:21 PM

As I'm still scared to get out on the roads near the house, so I ventured out on my small road right here by the house without going out on the main road.

I badly wanted to ride and it was getting too dark by the time I got home from work. I practiced hill climbing on my small (but steep) hill and at the end of the road is a small convenience store with a parking lot that I used to turn around. Problem is there is a speed bump entering the parking lot. For what ever reason I was scared to go over it, thinking that hitting it would just bounce me right the way sideways and down goes Frazier... down goes Frazier.

Then I just DID it and hopped right over that bump and said.. wow.. weeeeeee.. that was FUN.

Shannon

jelee1311

09-21-2010, 05:44 PM

Good job! I can understand being wary of roads you will get there. Its a good thing you aren't letting that stop you.:)

hebe

09-22-2010, 12:36 AM

Then I just DID it and hopped right over that bump and said.. wow.. weeeeeee.. that was FUN.

Shannon

:D Brilliant!

Speed-bumps were my nemesis too, there is one that goes almost all the way across the road just outside my house. I knew I was improving when I could set off and ride between the kerb and the edge of the bump (a gap of a couple of feet) rather than wobbling straight over the bump.

Roadtrip

09-24-2010, 06:37 AM

hebe

09-24-2010, 07:53 AM

Good luck! I'm sure you'll have a blast :D

My cycling instructor has broken her hand, so no lesson next week. If the weather is ok I'm going to have a go at the trail I found instead, can't waste two hours of nursery time!

Bike Writer

09-24-2010, 08:03 AM

Catrin

09-24-2010, 01:12 PM

I've got some big plans for this weekend... I'm doing my first trail ride, leaving my practice parking lot for the first time... going really early so I can (hopefully) be out with a few people as possible. I'm scared, but looking forward to it, I'll report back on how the ride goes.

You go woman! I remember doing this the very first time and while it is a little scary, you will find that our imagination really tends to make things harder than they are. Keep us posted, and have fun!

MyRubyE

09-24-2010, 04:57 PM

So today was my off Friday and the weather was absolutely gorgeous today. Took the bike out to go for a ride, and was feeling pretty confident and great: traffic, red lights, stopping w/ one foot clipped in no longer freaking me out so much and I can really enjoy the ride. Then out of the blue a rodie flies by me on her bike and says hi and is off like lightening. Man was she fast... Must have been going 18 mph. Compared to my 12.8 mph. So, I guess I still have a long way to go :). Really need to work on the speed, but loving every minute of my slow rides. :). I was not jealous, but inspired.

Roadtrip

09-25-2010, 09:32 AM

6.5 Miles in a little more then 60 minutes (with a stop, see details below), top speed 17.5 mph on the straight flat part.. weeeeeeeeeeeee.

WHOOOO HOOOO.. I even passed other cyclists (OK it was two ladies with a kid), dog walkers, joggers, and a roller blader.

I only had one "moment" and it wasn't really even my fault... Two ladies were walking four dogs and had the BOTH lanes blocked. I called out on the left as I approached and they tried to get the dogs over into the right lane, but I had to slow down and ended up running off into the tall grass to the left and stop, but didn't put the bike down.

Before we got going again DH mentioned he needed to tighten his handlebars. I asked did he need to go back to the car where the tools were, he said it would be OK for now, so we set off again. About a half mile down the trail I hear a wicked commotion behind me and knew DH had gone down and started breaking so I could turn around when I heard him call out... Hold Up... I turned around to see him on the ground. I finally got back to him and his bars were totally WACKED and the seat was twisted sideways and I asked if he was OK. Yea.. I'm OK he snorts.

We walk the bikes back to the car and get the tools and tighten everything down and I ask if he wants to continue and he says yes, so we go on.

It felt REALLY great. I mean really, really great. DH has a badly skinned up knee that I helped clean up and bandage.. I've only teased a "few" times that he crashed and I didn't :D

Shannon

hebe

09-25-2010, 10:46 AM

Woo hoo! Go RoadTrip :cool: :D

I bet you're so proud, and rightly so! I hope your dh is ok after his tumble, he must have been working really hard to catch you up! Well done on managing your 'moment' too! I think you might be nearly done with that parking lot now. I'm so pleased for you.

I'm really hoping for a dry morning tomorrow, as opposed to the forecast rain, as dh will be baking with my girl so I'll be able to get out on my bike. It's been too long.

stella2

09-26-2010, 04:11 AM

That's brilliant Roadtrip. You should be really proud :D

Bike Writer

09-26-2010, 10:13 AM

It felt REALLY great. I mean really, really great. :D

Bravo! Bravo!

The excitement in your voice comes through your post, what a magnificent feeling being out "on the path", freedom, exhiliration, daring, confidence - all powerfully charged emotions that lead us back and back again to our bikes.:D

Bike Writer

09-26-2010, 10:14 AM

Hebe, tell us about your ride if the weather is permitting today. Goregous here and ready to roll as soon as I get changed.

hebe

09-27-2010, 12:35 AM

I didn't ride yesterday, the weather was right on the edge and I didn't want to try an unfamiliar path in the rain :o I did walk it however, and have learned that there is about 100yds of unmade farm road then a steep but short tarmaced lane (that services the allotments) after what I'd already found. So there's a tiny bit of traffic, but the lane is single car width with passing spaces so it's slow traffic. I'm booking dd into creche tomorrow and will be cycling SOMEWHERE darnit, whatever the weather.

Roadtrip

09-27-2010, 07:50 AM

I lost a little more then three pounds last week!! I was up a pound from the week before when I indulged a little too much in Oktoberfest beer, brats, and fried pastry.

Great way to start off a new week!!!

Shannon

hebe

09-28-2010, 12:44 AM

I just go out practicing with my partner and I push myself a little more out of my comfort zone each time. I do Bikeability level one (apparantly all about control and riding around cones) on 28th.

Is it today, Stella? Good luck!

stella2

09-28-2010, 12:54 AM

Thanks for remembering Hebe. I put it back because I didn't feel ready to get enough out of it for it to be worthwhile and I was finding pushing too quickly was taking the pleasure out of taking my bike out. I haven't ridden as much as I'd hoped over the past few weeks because I have had a problem with my hip. I seem to be entering a creaky stage in life!

Anyway, there is no rush to all of this for me. If the recent torrential rain holds off and the hip holds out, I will go for a ride after work today :)

hebe

09-28-2010, 01:14 AM

You are very wise, the important thing is having fun and riding safely, not necessarily passing the exams.

It is miserable here too. I was going to go off-road while my daughter is in creche but it's going to be muddy and slippy after the rain so I think that's off.

hebe

09-28-2010, 03:35 AM

Well done on losing 3lbs Roadtrip - do you train most days as well as riding outside? That's a brilliant loss in a week.

I have just Been And Done It - the bridleway that I found. I couldn't make it up a couple of the hills so had to walk them :o but oh boy did I love riding down the other side, braking all the way and a face somewhere between :D and :eek:I did some cyclepath riding the other side of the trail too and got into 3rd gear on the big wheels for the first time ever. It was also the first outing ever for my padded cycling boxers - will see tomorrow how well they worked!

yeeeeha! Can't wait to do it again :D

Roadtrip

09-28-2010, 07:15 AM

I'm trying to get on the bike three to four times a week (haven't been out since Saturday tho), but not feeling well Sunday so just did a small ride working on hills/climbing, tho in heinsight I perhaps should have listened... back and calves have been barking at me since.

Weatherman states my plan is to get out for a long ride tomorrow after work. Off day Thursday (Rain), another ride Friday, off day Saturday (Rain), and if I'm feeling up to it I'd like to do at least 10 miles on Sunday... I'm also walking with a group here at work to get extra steps in.

Gotta set some goals sometime :D

Shannon

Roadtrip

10-04-2010, 09:38 AM

I thought I'd report in.. last week I had a pretty productive week!!

9-25 : First ever experience in a trail ride; 6 miles
9-28 : Trail Ride; 4 miles
9-30 : Trail Ride; 4 miles
10-01 : Trail Ride; 4 miles
10-03 : First ever road ride, which involved riding up the monster hill next to my house to the grocery store. About a mile or so. Later in the day ventured around the neighborhood on the bike, including a DECEPTIVE slow grinding hill that killed my legs and lungs. 2-3 miles in total, but with the hills, feels like MUCH more.

"Grocery" Hill

http://www.cincylights.com/images/hill.jpg

http://www.cincylights.com/images/ouch_hill.jpg

The official weigh in for our work weight loss challenge is tomorrow, but my own weigh in at home showed lost 2-3 pounds and I'm now the lowest weight I've been in over five years!! I'm down 10 pounds since I started riding about eight weeks ago.

Shannon

hebe

10-04-2010, 10:19 AM

Excellent! Congratulations on the first ever road road and also on your weight loss :D

I didn't get to ride today, the forecast was awful so I put dd in creche for an hour and went to the gym. Except of course the forecast rain didn't materialise so I could have saved a couple of pounds and gone for a good long ride.

Stella, how are you and your beautiful Pashley doing?

Bike Writer

10-04-2010, 10:34 AM

Bike Writer

10-04-2010, 10:35 AM

nikkoblu2

10-04-2010, 10:59 AM

I've been reading all your successes for the last week or so. I had a "woo hoo moment" on Saturday.

I did a charity ride with some of the family in Hazleton, PA. They tell me Hazleton has the highest elevation of any town in PA. We started at the top, but of course what goes down must come back up.

There was a 50k and a 100k. I was trying out my new road bike with a compact double and a little nervous about being able to spin up some of these hills (one was brutal) so I opted to do the 50k (about 31 miles).

Anyway, besides taking the hills like a trooper, I passed two guys. I knew they did the 100k so I didn't think anything of it - after all - they went a lot further than me and should me more tired. So when I passed I made a little light conversation. The guy immediately went on the defensive about how he hasn't done any training since the such-a-such ride. Puulllease! Don't be such a dweeb!

So, I kicked it up a notch and went straight uphill for 9 miles and put more and more distance between us. He never saw me again. Certainly helped build up the old confidence on the new bike.

Now, if I just get those clipless next year...imagine...

Bike Writer

10-04-2010, 07:21 PM

anyway, besides taking the hills like a trooper, i passed two guys. I knew they did the 100k so i didn't think anything of it - after all - they went a lot further than me and should me more tired. So when i passed i made a little light conversation. The guy immediately went on the defensive about how he hasn't done any training since the such-a-such ride. Puulllease! Don't be such a dweeb!

So, i kicked it up a notch and went straight uphill for 9 miles and put more and more distance between us. He never saw me again. Certainly helped build up the old confidence on the new bike.

Now, if i just get those clipless next year...imagine...

priceless!!!!!!

jelee1311

10-05-2010, 12:05 AM

I had an amazing week,I'm sorry if this post is long winded but here goes. I'm recovering from an overuse injury to my achillies tendon that I've had since March. Typical newbie, I did 6 months of overtraining that eventally landed me off my bike and in a walking cast in May. Finally my doctor did a plasma injection in August. September 1 I started riding my bike again under strict guidelines ,no big chainring ,under 5 miles,no hills ,clipless,cadence under 80. I'm so happy I'm riding again I will do anything. I'm riding 3 to 4 days a week and loving it. I saw my doctor on Friday and the ultrasound on my tendon showed its healing perfectly. Typing that makes me smile. So on Saturday I went for a ten mile ride and my tendon feels fine. Typing that makes me smile even more.

Roadtrip

10-05-2010, 06:36 AM

Had the "official" weigh-in this morning.. lost another three pounds.. down 5.7 pounds in three weeks.

Shannon

hebe

10-05-2010, 08:49 AM

Congratulations Jelee and Road Trip!

hebe

10-07-2010, 05:28 AM

Hebe,

Don't know how I missed this post but congratulations on your ride on your newfound bridleway! Sounds like you had a ball and it has pumped you up with enthusiasm. :cool:

Thank you! I've been up there again today, did a little bit better with the steep sections but it's going to take time before I can ride the whole thing. I did some more road riding at the other end than before, and also found the continuation of the trail which I am DESPERATE to try as it gives some brilliant views. I was all out of legs to get up the hill today though. It was my first ride using my cheapie bike shoes, I was so fed up with my trainers feeling like they were soaking up all my pedalling. I covered a lot more ground this time and came home all muddy and :D again. I also rode the busy road section going to the trail rather than short-cutting through the park (which is not really a short cut because I have to get off to get the bike through the barrier). It was such a beautiful morning and I was so happy to be out on my bike.

Nikkiblu, that sounds fantastic! I bet you can't wait to try it clipless :D

Roadtrip

10-11-2010, 09:54 AM

Tried out a new trail and got a whole new lesson on defensive riding skills.
Logged about 16 miles this week, but not SO bad considering as things kept coming up and couldn't get out to ride the first part of the week.
Had a busy Saturday, where we rode with a friend for a quick little bit before heading off to the Amusement park for a day of fun in the sun and roller coasters (eight hours on my feet and walking around the park, legs dead) This ride also happened to be the first time I rode right beside someone as I had been afraid of not being able to hold my line and crashing. Rode this way for several miles. I DID still get out the next day and bike 5 miles and back/legs did feel better afterward.
Lost 2.4 pounds last week-- so just over 8 pounds in last four weeks and nearing 15 pounds since I started biking.

Shannon

Roadtrip

10-16-2010, 07:08 PM

This thread has been pretty quite for the last week, so I thought I'd bump it to the top with report from ride today.

Here goes...

We were supposed to go to the movies with a friend today, but plans fell through last night, so I hatched an idea for a longer ride and started looking at trail maps. Had been wanting to try the Little Miami Scenic Trail that runs from Newtown (burb of Cincinnati and only 10 minutes from home) all the way north for seventy some odd miles to Xenia, Ohio.

Plan was ride from Newtown to Loveland and grab some lunch and then ride back home... my longest ever ride. Previous longest ride was about 6 miles, so this ride well exceeded this. Thought it was going to be about a 10 mile ride to Loveland, but ended up being more then 13 miles, so was a 26 miles out and back. Twenty miles further then my previous best.

To add to my accomplishment, I rode part of the ride clip-less. so it was also my first ever ride clipped in. It actually happened much my accident really. I have pedals that are dual sided, platforms on one side and the other side is SPD. Sometimes then taking off when I put my left foot on the pedal, they don't always flip to the platform side and I have to coast while working my foot to flip it over. We had stopped at an intersection and when I took off it didn't flip, but I didn't fully notice, which was because my foot slid into the clip and was quite happy there. Down the road I realized my foot was locked into the pedal, but felt pretty stable, so I rode along. At the next stop I made sure I tested clipping out before coming to a stop, which was smooth, so when I started back up I went ahead ad clipped, this time on purpose.

I'm tired and my right knee was yelling at me the last few miles. Feeling pretty darn good about my ride today!!!

Shannon

hebe

10-17-2010, 06:16 AM

oh wow Shannon, Go you! 26 miles AND clipped in! That'll show up in your weight loss this week. You must be so pleased!

I worked out that last Sunday's ride was about 8miles, so I'm very happy with that. Today I planned a new route - up the favourite bridleway, then joining a new one, then onto the Wessex Ridgeway, which is a national trail with some fantastic views. Then dropping down onto a country road, which is a 60mph limit so quite a fast road (albeit with very little traffic). I managed to come off the bike on the first 100metre stretch of road leading to the first bridleway :o No idea what happened - empty road, slightly downhill, I braked for my turning and the back of the bike fishtailed and I came off into the road. I must have braked harder than I thought. Anyway, I checked the bike and myself, got back on and rode the route anyway. The Ridgeway was beautiful but completely unmade for most of the part I was on - lush green grass with big muddy ruts and dips. I really need to get a mountain bike!

I had my Garmin in my pocket and it reckons I did 3.17miles, 330feet of climbing, a top speed of 61.3mph (clearly wrong) and a second top speed of 13.9mph which looks more realistic. Can't wait to get out again!

Roadtrip

10-17-2010, 08:02 AM

I did sorta come off the bike as DH stopped suddenly and as I stopped I dropped the bike in order to stay on my feet. After we had lunch and was about to head back I realized my bike wasn't right... my chain had come off, so I had to put it back and made sure things were smooth rolling.

Feeling good, yes. I also am not as sore today as I thought I might be. We're already plotting another trip up the trail and things up that way to see and do.

If I am down two pounds (which I think I am), then I'll have done the ten pound loss challenge in five week instead of ten, but my real goal is twenty pounds in that ten weeks!

Hope you're OK after your tumble. I hate when you do something like that.. most of the time it's RIGHT where loads of people are looking and you feel like a total idiot.

Shannon

hebe

10-17-2010, 09:59 AM

I thought my chain might have come off today but it was fine. 10lbs in five weeks would be excellent, good luck with the next five weeks!

My ankle is swelling nicely now :( so I think I've done something to a muscle or two. I'll take things easy tomorrow and send dh out for some arnica tablets. It's a bit of a pain, but I wouldn't have been able to ride this week anyway, and on Friday dh goes back to the US for a week so dd and I will be spending a few days in Cornwall with my family and I doubt I will ride then either as none of my family ride. Thanks for your good wishes, luckily no-one saw it at all so I was alone in my humiliation and cussing. I was looking hard at the road when I cycled back and I think I might have braked over a drain cover, though I'm sure I would have realised :confused: dh has just gently reminded me that I am still a beginner, and that beginners fall off from time to time.

Kerry1976

10-17-2010, 11:06 AM

Hi everyone!

I am a super new newbie! I got my Trek Pure Lowstep (7-spd) on Thursday night and did a little under 3 miles on it. I can't remember the last time I did 3 miles - maybe never?

Anyway, I got on my bike today and went on my first real ride - where I just wanted to go as long as I felt like, but not overdo it. I got over 10.5 miles going around 10.5 mph! Totally excited!

My backstory - I'm a 34yo runner (with a pudgier physique!) who has had 2 stress fractures this year - one in each ankle. I'm needing to cross train, but am bike stupid - and basically bike terrified. I needed a bike that I could ride and put my feet on the ground at stops, and something that wasn't crazy in shifting - need to simply learn to RIDE. I love my bike.

hebe

10-17-2010, 11:54 AM

Welcome Kerry, and congratulations on your new bike and your rides so far! This is the place for the "bike terrified", you'll fit right in!

Bike Writer

10-17-2010, 11:59 AM

Welcome and good job Kerry1976, I'm sure you'll find yourself in very good company here. There are some great gals with lots of knowledge and support to go around.

Hebe and Roadtrip - WOW, you guys have been cranking it out the last two weeks and making progress by leaps and bounds! Excellent!

I'm moving along in my biking as well, I look back to the end of July when I got my bike and how shaky and scared I was on the first couple weeks and say, hmmmm, you've come a long way gal. Knock on wood since I adjusted my saddle angle I've not fallen once. And the thirst for longer trips continues...

Bike Writer

10-17-2010, 12:02 PM

My ankle is swelling nicely now :( .......I am still a beginner, and that beginners fall off from time to time.

Oh my Hebe, take care of that ankle, ice it down and try to stay off it as much as you can, however with a little one that is probably not easy.

Sadly, yes, falls are part of the initiation, or so it seems...

Roadtrip

10-18-2010, 08:59 AM

Boooo.. the scale said I was down only a half pound. Booooo..

How in the world? I KNOW I rode only twice last week, but one was a VERY hilly 5 mile ride and the other was my twenty-six miler on Saturday. OK. I did have a hamburger for lunch that day and did also indulge in a single solitary cookie from the local bakery (it was GOOD btw) as a bit of a reward.

Just a bit depressed. I worked so hard last week.
Shannon

hebe

10-18-2010, 09:33 AM

Boo too :( Hopefully they will carry over to next week.

Bike Writer

10-18-2010, 10:19 AM

Bike Writer

10-23-2010, 07:14 AM

Bumping the thread to post weekly achievement;

Since I got my bike on a Friday I chart my weekly mileage from Friday's to Thursday's. I just closed my 13th week of riding with 59.9 miles for the week with no special events just after workday riding. This is not a lot of miles for many people here who do this kind of mileage in a day and then some and do it repeatedly for day after day but for rediscovering the joy of biking again in middle age I am quite proud.

The human body continues to amaze me.

Kicked off the new week yesterday with a 17+ mile ride.

http://www.mapmyfitness.com/route/united-states/mi/brighton/538128780232850139

hebe

10-23-2010, 12:29 PM

That sounds pretty awesome to me - well done!

No miles at all here this week, I'm staying with my parents in Cornwall without a bike.

Roadtrip

10-24-2010, 06:54 AM

Not much to report here this week either. I have been battling a hip injury this week. Even walking has been painful. I don't think it was biking related as it started really hurting Tuesday and has continued to bark at me off and on. It's finally calmed down and last night we got out for a short 6 mile ride to test how I felt and was pain free. Rain here by the end of the day, so I'll get my cycling shut down for several days at least, at least until rain turns to snow!!

Shannon

Roadtrip

10-25-2010, 05:38 AM

Wooo Hoooo.. Just had my weekly weigh in and down 2.6 pounds for the week and for the ten week weight loss challenge, down 10.4 pounds in six weeks.

hebe

10-25-2010, 12:47 PM

Bike Writer

10-28-2010, 05:59 PM

Wooo Hoooo.. down 2.6 pounds for the week and for the ten week weight loss challenge, down 10.4 pounds in six weeks.

Very nice! Feel better soon.

Bike Writer

10-28-2010, 06:00 PM

Well done! I hope that you are fully recovered soon.

I took some 30c Arnica tablets for my ankle and it worked a charm, the limp was gone within a day. Looking forward to getting back on my bike next week!

Hebe, sorry to hear your ankle's been acting up. Get better soon because you'll be coming back with some pent up bike riding to do!

hebe

11-01-2010, 07:53 AM

Thank you!

I made it out today, without falling off, so I think I'm over that last fall. I did the normal bridleway, though had to stop twice on the hill :( I guess that's what two weeks off the bike does to you. Then I followed the extension of the bridleway to its end - really beautiful in the sun with a canopy of autumn foliage. I came back on some country lanes. So about five miles, which feels a little disappointing, but the off-road riding always seems to feel longer than it is. A fly flew into my face on the way back, which really stung so I must have been going at least a little bit fast. I get so much joy and satisfaction from planning these rides as well as actually riding them, it's great to get the map out and work out my route.

I got back to find that I had somehow switched off my Garmin Dakota (in my saddle bag) so had no record of my ride :( I had been so looking forward to uploading my route and looking at the stats, so I worked it out on mapmyrun instead.

I've set a target of cycling 25miles in each of November and December, so 50miles before year end. I think this should be do-able with one ride most weeks and a couple of extra. I know that it's really very modest, but it's really difficult for me to find an hour or so twice a week because of childcare, but I'd be very happy to manage this!

Roadtrip

11-01-2010, 08:33 AM

Was a busy week at work, so little riding for me...

Attempted to get out on the bike Wednedsay, but had a flat right in the driveway and didn't have a spare tube, plus light was seriously fading-- Winter SUCKS. Drove to the LBS to pick up extra tubes and got the flat fixed so we could ride later in the week.

Friday we went out on the new bike and I only made it a half mile before I had to stop as the pain in my wrists was unbearable and the seat was too high. I lowered the seat and continued on, but pain was still an 8/10, so cut the ride short. I took my gloves off and heal of my palms were red and had the cross-hatch pattern from my grips embedded into them. OUCH.

Still had time to drive by LBS and a they suggested a tweak to the angle of the grips and break levers. It was a SLIGHT tweak and was eager to try it out (OK-OK, I was dubious such a little change would help) so with a little light from the parking lot I set off... Wow. This feels pretty good.. zoom.. zoom.. zoom.. Ziiipppp by DH standing by the car. I finally pull up next to the with a silly grin on my face and he's asks.. enjoying yourself??

Saturday we go off to the park to give the new bike a better test run. We unload and I notice it's a tad windy. We set off and I'm feeling pretty good.. I don't have a computer on the bike yet so I didn't know how fast I was going, but it felt good and I knew I had a LOT of gears left and I slowed down and asked DH how fast we were going. 12mph. I said OK and hit the gas, right up until I hit the wind, all 18mph of it RIGHT into my face which was like climbing a hill. I pulled over with DH next to me and he said I've never had to go in that high a gear to keep up and said we were doing 17-18mph and he was almost out of gears on his 21 speed trying to keep up. I informed him I still hadn't gone into my big gear (with an evil laugh.)

We set off again and finally turned so the wind was at our side instead of head on. I yelled back at DH Threeeee.. changed gear and hit the gas again. He later said he was in his highest gear and doing 20mph and I was still pulling away. If the wind hadn't been so bad we would have stayed out longer, but I had a blast, I like my new bike!!

(I have to mention he was on a heavy bike and I was on the Trek FX 7.3 hybrid with 700c tires... he gets his FX 7.5 with carbon fork on Friday so I think my days of being able to smoke him on a bike are limited!!)

BTW: Trail was pretty much void of people or I would have NEVER gone that fast on a trail. I immediately slowed when I saw someone else on the trail.

Shannon

hebe

11-01-2010, 10:32 AM

Woo hoo Shannon!

Is this the Trek with the pixellated flowers? It sounds like it was made for you :D I bet your dh is stupidly proud of your hard work and progress.

I haven't found a flat enough trail to do that on, but there is a multi-user pavement (=sidewalk) that is completlely empty outside of school start/finish times so I love blasting along there.

Just sending out a wave to Stella2 and hoping that she's recovering ok from her op :flowers:

Bike Writer

11-01-2010, 12:40 PM

Shannon and Hebe, nice work ladies.

Boy oh boy, you must LOVE that new bike!

Roadtrip

11-02-2010, 06:00 AM

Hebe:
I didn't get the new(er) bike as I couldn't find a buyer for the 2008, so I've just been riding that one as of late. If I could sell it and the LBS still has the 2009, I might be tempted to buy, outside of me selling this one I'll have to look at DH's shiny new bike while I got a used bike with scratches, etc... but I'm not bitter :D

BW:
Yup, I DO like my bike.. tho it did get cranky last night on the way to the grocery store.. wouldn't change down into my granny gear on a hill. I was stuck in the wrong gear or I seriously botched the gear change. Same thing happened with my other bike so I suspect user error was to blame.

Either way I ran out of gas and had to walk. It (the physical effort) also triggered a migraine, but I should have listened to my body as I felt slightly "off" even before the short ride, so I can't blame the bike!! I'd just installed my new mirror and was itching for the place where rubber meets road.

The effort of trying to muscle up a hill in the wrong gear made me feel like someone was standing on my head and caused instant nausea to where I just folded on the couch when I got back.

Kerry1976

11-02-2010, 04:01 PM

Rode my first-ever 15-miler today at 11.6 mph, which was pretty good being it was somewhat windy and half the ride was in town. I've had my bike just over 1/2 a month and have put 60 miles on it.

Roadtrip

11-08-2010, 08:19 AM

Thought I'd post a quick update. First, I lost 1.1 pounds last week and down 11.2 pounds in eight weeks.

Been busy lately. Took DH Friday to pick up new bike (in the rain) and it looks really, really nice!! I looked at the new old stock bike again while we were there and I've decided to just stick with my 2008 and be happy with it. It's silly.

Hit the small local trail on Saturday and did about 5 miles at a pretty slow pace trying to get us both dialed in with saddle positions and the like. It was pretty cold (lower 40's, but sunny) and my nose was cooperating leading to a little difficulty breathing when we stepped up the pace. I don't know why my nose leaks like a old faucet when the temp gets below 50. OY!!

I ended up swapping out the saddle, put on some nice Ergo-grips with bar ends, and installed a new wireless bike comp. I'm really happy with how it's feeling (after being scared silly with the 700C tires at first) now that I'm getting pretty dialed in comfort wise. I "assumed" that the big cushy seat would be MORE comfy then the road/hybrid saddle. I had serious issues with it on this bike, but I am pretty happy (looks better too) with the smaller saddle with less padding... odd, but hey.. if it works I ain't complaining!

We rode to the grocery Sunday and I changed into the wrong gear heading up the hill and killed the forward momentum I had and ended up walking the hill. Got a few things we needed and I bombed down the hill on the way back and didn't even touch the breaks until the bottom. I was FLYING and went to look at my bike computer and realized it was in my pocket. LOL. If I wasn't nearing 25-30mph I'd be surprised. I loved it too.

Shannon

The trusty steed in the trainer:
http://www.cincylights.com/images/TrekFX_trainer.jpg

hebe

11-08-2010, 10:27 AM

COngratulations on the weight loss! I have about another 7lbs to go, which hopefully will be gone by Christmas.

That bike computer thing is infuriating isn't it? My last ride I had the Garmin working ok, but the chain came off my bike and I had to walk home. The ride before was excellent, but the Garmin was in my seat pack and switched itself off.

The weather here has turned miserable, and my dh was home for a week before flying out to Berlin yesterday until the weekend. I'm hoping to get out on Wednesday if the rain stops. I ordered a bundle of clothes from minx-girl.com and it has all come, I need to exchange the jersey for a larger size but everything else looks pretty good and comfy.

Bike Writer

11-09-2010, 07:08 AM

... but the chain came off my bike and I had to walk home...
.

Oh Hebe, that stinks when it happens. Happened to me twice recently, the first time a couple of bikers came along and helped me out and I was really grateful because I was a few miles out from my vehicle and I was really struggling with it, the second time I tried it myself and after a bit of a work I got it back on. It's a wee bit harder because I have a chain guard but turning the bike upside down really helps instead of being all hunched over and trying to do this we me upside down. If you put your hand behind the derailur and push it foward, it moves forward a couple of inches and gives you the necessary slack to get the job done. It is a VERY messy process but beats walking back.

hebe

11-09-2010, 09:51 AM

Thank you for those tips, I'm glad it's not just me. It came off the largest cog on the rear deraillieur and got wedged under that pie plate thing at the back, so even with as much slack as I could get it wasn't coming unstuck. Wheeling it home did seem to help though, I got it sorted in the back garden.

Weather is sunny but cold tomorrow, so I'm going out in my new tights! I'm starting to worry that I'll forget how to ride if I leave it another week.

hebe

11-10-2010, 02:18 PM

jelee1311

11-11-2010, 01:22 AM

Good job! I love that you sing that song going up an evil hill,my hill climbing efforts usually result in four letter words

Roadtrip

11-11-2010, 10:00 AM

Hebe - Have you considered a Cross Bike when your ready for your next new boke? Does it have to be a Mountain Bike? Will you be doing trails where your doing stump jumping and that sorta stuff??

Sorry no suggestions on the mud. I'm a little too chicken to try slogging through the slippery stuff :eek:

Shannon

Bike Writer

11-11-2010, 10:25 AM

Well, my new tights worked, I made it all the way up one of my nemesis hills (singing "Straighten up and fly right" in an effort to keep focussed). I did better on the other one too. It was cold - 41, so I was properly wrapped up, and it was great not to feel the chill.

Can anyone tell me about riding in mud? I was going up a new bridleway which ended up with my wheels making squelching and sucking noises as I went through ankle deep mud and puddles. I headed back when the mud started going uphill as I wasn't sure my comfort bike was up to it, but I do want to head back that way when I have my mountain bike. Any tips would be very welcome.

Today was 6.22miles, top speed of 16mph. I'm just over half-way to my 25mile target for November.

Great job on the hills and mileage goal! It sounds like you are having a lot of fun in the process. I sometimes sing up hills also. One of mine is to the tune of "here we go a caroling" "here I go a pedling - up the hill I go" then it morphs into "row, row, row your boat" "pedal, pedal, pedal - life is what I know". Goofy but it helps, it makes me laugh and not think so hard about the hill. :o

Riding in mud? Sorry, don't have experience and don't want to, you're brave to traverse it!

hebe

11-11-2010, 12:25 PM

Thank you! I did wonder about a cross bike, but they seem quite pricey here and I can get a Specialized Myka for rather less. It's easier to avoid mud than hills, I suppose, and I can talk to the bike shop about the best bike for the type of riding I do. I absolutely love getting away from it all, up a track that has just the odd dogwalker or horserider, and my time fellrunning in the Peak District left me with a deep appreciation of the views that you get after slogging through all that mud and up those hills. Also, as a fairly reluctant exerciser, I found that concentrated hill work brings real benefits to muscle tone and cv fitness, and I'm finding the same with cycling. I'm not sure about getting to technical tracks Roadtrip -maybe in the future, but at the moment my riding time is only in 60-90minute chunks and there aren't any trails close enough to fit in with that. It is something that I'm thinking about for the future though.

There was a lovely hill song posted on here, I can't remember who by :o , but it went "We are climbing, We are climbing, Yes we are Yes we are, This is not a real hill, This is not a real hill, No it's not, No it's not" (to Frere Jacque).

How are you getting on, Kerry?

Bike Writer

11-13-2010, 07:53 AM

16 weeks of riding since I bought my bike and I finished this week with 49 miles and 5 days of riding. We were very fortunate to have a very mild streak of weather all week. I'm not where I want to be with hill climbing but I've improved a lot and my stamina has really grown along with my strength. More importantly the stiffness from arthritis has improved dramatically along with flexibility. I am more flexible now that I ever imagined that I could be.

Wish I could say that my klutziness has improved also but I took my hardest fall yesterday. My elbow met the ground sooner than the rest of me and the momentum jammed my shoulder. I saw stars accompanied by shooting pains, luckily I fell on soft grass. Several good Samarians came by to lend assistance. I am surprised at how little pain I am in today, it's mostly just tender. I'm lucky I didn't dislocate my shoulder.

jelee1311

11-13-2010, 11:44 AM

Yesterday my DH went for a ride with me and as usual pushed me hard. I complain but I know its good for me. I was already tired from a pretty fast 15 mile ride the day before and a hard PT workout on my quads. My husband rides a lot and fast,we started out at about 16mph-18mph for about 4 miles with me lagging behind. Then he took me on a road I've never been on before that turned out to be a nice long hill. This was the first hill I've done since being back on the bike and I was worried I was going to hurt my achilles again. I just kept spinning and felt a bit panicky because the hill just kept going. My DH just stayed by me up the whole hill going slow and encouraging me until we got to the top. The view of the lake was amazing. We rode a few more miles then turned around. Going down we got up to 32mph I was so happy!!! I rode with DH for a few more miles then he broke off to do his real hill work out. Heading home I decided my legs felt good and it was such a nice day that I was going to keep going. I rode 20 miles and still had some legs left but I didn't push more baby steps.

jelee1311

11-13-2010, 11:57 AM

BIke Writer good job on all that you've accomplished I'm sorry you crashed and I hope you are okay. I'm glad the weather has still permitted you to ride (I read some of your oher posts) and it sounds like you are enloying fall riding.

hebe

11-13-2010, 01:43 PM

BW, I'm so sorry about your fall. You've done so much since you started 16weeks ago that it's such a shame to fall towards the end of the reasonable weather. I've enjoyed all your posts and your blog too, and well done on all your health improvements through cycling. That must be so satisying. I wish you a speedy recovery and some good weather so you can get back out on your bike soon!

Wow Jelee, that sounds that a good ride. I am in awe of all these higher speeds and longer distances!

I had a funny old day today. No riding, as my bits are (still) sore from finally getting up that hill on Wednesday. I bought a new reflector for my bike, as my current one is obscured by the super-handy underseat bag, and fitted the reflector myself so was very proud of myself for that. Then I cleaned off most of the mud from the bike, and noticed what seemed to be a huge long crack in the frame. I was gutted, and asked dh to look at it too. He very gently told me that it was a clear piece of protective plastic that was just starting to peel off :o I was so relieved, I thought I'd broken my bike. He also showed me that my mini pump actually has to be screwed onto the valve in order to work :o I've always used the floor pump but thought I should probably get the hang of the minipump too.

The really lovely news of the day is that he asked me if I'd like a mountain bike for Christmas :D. Honestly, you can see my smile from the moon. We are going to the super-nice not-so local LBS next Saturday for me to choose one. He wants to borrow my Marin sometimes, which I think is absolutely fine. He adores the saddle on it.

Roadtrip

11-13-2010, 02:03 PM

We got out for a short ride today and ended doing about 5 miles, but some of that was into a 16-18mph headwind that was like climbing a hill! Left me feeling a little like I had Jell-O in my legs. Still adjusting to this new saddle and found myself shifting, trying to find the right position, plus my hands started getting numb-- something I hadn't encountered before. I was trying some new gloves today and may have had the closure too tight, but when we paused to decide if we wanted to continue to push into the wind I noticed "pins and needles" in my pinky/ring fingers on both hands like if I'm sitting wrong and my foot goes to sleep.

Shannon

Kerry1976

11-14-2010, 09:42 AM

I have had my bike exactly one month today (just realized that). Today was my first-ever 20 mile ride. :) Breezy and cool, but sunny and beautiful. YAY!

Bike Writer

11-14-2010, 11:46 AM

This is a great thread to read about everyone's accomplishments, milestones etc. Some stories are warm and fuzzy and others are awe-inspiring and encouraging. I'm ok and thank you jelee and hebe for concern.

Hebe you had me cracking up about that plastic tape, I would have had that same sinking feeling had I discovered it.

Congrats and good job to all of us!

Roadtrip

11-14-2010, 01:43 PM

BW glad your OK from your spill! Speaking of crashing.. I ALMOST crashed today because I FORGOT to unclip. LOL.

I was approaching a bench and preparing to stop, but also trying to gear down before I got there, so when got to the bench I nearly toppled right over. I tried to put my foot down and realized my foot was still locked to the pedal! I was able to unclip the foot on the side I was now leaning and put my hand down the bench to steady myself instead putting the bike down.

Oh, it was also miserably cold at about 45 degrees with 8-10mph wind... plus my legs were really hurting today. Knees and legs both barking at me today... I guess that's what I get for being off the bike for nearly a week!

Shannon

jelee1311

11-14-2010, 09:39 PM

Hebe I'm so happy for you,a new bike how exciting! What a great thing to look forward to. I'm strictly a roadie but maybe next spring.......:D

Kerry1976

11-21-2010, 01:53 PM

Not much new on my end....just passed 100 miles for 5 weeks on my Trek Pure Lowstep. Getting the fever though and wanting a road bike....

Roadtrip

11-21-2010, 02:05 PM

Not much to report here either. Today was a really nice day and we got out for a ride around the neighborhood and ended up being MUCH more stressful then it was worth. Adding air to tires was a challenge (I HATE Presta valves) and once we got on the road (I assumed since it's a Sunday not so many cars-- yeaaaaaa right) we had a challenge dealing with cars vevving the engine at stop lights and basically being unkind.

Me and DH aren't all that accustomed to road riding, but I didn't want to load up bikes and such either to go to the MUT, plus we need to work on getting used to the road. I don't always want to pack up the car if I want to ride.

Just stressed out... got a good workout in a short time as the four miles we did, half of it was up hill, so it was a good challenge and feeling it in my legs. I also can't wimp out on the hills so need to learn to cope with those too.

PS. We had the final weigh-in with the 10 week weight loss challenge and I logged 16.2 pounds lost in slightly less then 10 weeks. Wooo Hoo!!

Shannon

hebe

11-22-2010, 06:51 AM

I need to work more on road riding too, the off-road rides are just so darn close (less than half a mile of road before I'm on the track). I've never driven the bike anywhere, but hopefully should be able to do so with the new bike as the fenders will be less of an issue and I should be able to take the front wheel and seat post off and fit it all in the car.

That sounds great Kerry!

I went and looked at a Specialized Myka on Saturday. It looks great, but it was too wet to take it for a test ride. I'll try again at the back end of the week, I am excited and petrified in equal measure. It has different shifters! I have also :drumroll please: bought my first ever mini-bike-multi-tool-doo-dah set thingie. I have Allan keys, Philips head screwdriver, two tyre levers and a thingie for letting the air out of valves all in a little case. I can't wait for dd to nap so I can get out in the garage and use them to point the nose of my saddle slightly down rather than slightly up. Which hopefully will ease the soreness problem.

Roadtrip

11-22-2010, 08:12 AM

I might add that the Clipless pedals were a real PAIN yesterday. I have the dual sided type pedals with SPD/Platforms, but the new bike shoes (first pair were wrecked as they were too flexible.. soles cracked just behind clip) are most defiantly not friendly to platform side. Not sure why, but the pedals kept flipping over to the wrong (platform) side so I ended up slipping off the pedals several times as I tried to flip at least one over and clip in and still maintain forward momentum. Stopping was another story too. I'd try and leave my left foot clipped in and have right foot touch down when I had to stop. Three times I tipped left and nearly fell over but unclipped in time. At least I came back alive and I didn't wreck, tho did have to do an improvised dismount in order not to go down with the ship.

Enough to make me give up on clipless.. grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

What doesn't kill us makes us stronger, eh??

Catrin

11-22-2010, 09:39 AM

What kind of soles are on your shoes? My Bontrager shoes have hard plastic soles, so of course they will not work on the platform side of my pedals - plastic and metal are not a good combination. All of that being said, I have not had much luck with the bear claw type of platform pedals as far as keeping my feet on them.

You are probably smarter than I was in August when I made the switch to clipless, but I will mention this anyway. Until you can tell what effect these may have on your hamstrings - especially if you are prone to tendinitis - limit your mileage clipped in for a bit just to make sure there won't be a problem. Clipping in does activate your hammies much more than platforms do. Then again, you probably haven't been over-doing things so I am sure it will work better for you.

I rode with BMX pedals for about 1,300 miles until I switched to clipless - and I found that to make the entire process much easier after my failed attempt to go clipless in early spring. I did manage to get close to 500 miles on my SPD/platform pedals before my over-use injuries took me off the bike - and I am back to BMX pedals until at least spring. Then, well, we will see. Pity no company has though to combine SPD and BMX-type dual pedals...talk about the best of both worlds!

Roadtrip

11-22-2010, 09:57 AM

What kind of soles are on your shoes? My Bontrager shoes have hard plastic soles, so of course they will not work on the platform side of my pedals - plastic and metal are not a good combination.

Yes, they're hard plastic. The Bontrager shoes I had prior were rubber, but had the recessed place for the SPD cleat, so even when riding without clipping in, I could use the platform side and had the advantage of a shoe with a firmer sole. I don't know why the shoes failed just behind the cleat, but I opted for a stiffer shoe when I replaced them, so stiffer but hard plastic.

I don't get out nearly as much as I'd like (8-12 miles a week, longest ride 26 miles) to and now the good weather days can be counted on one hand, but I can feel a difference when I'm clipped in and not, so I'll be take your warning and be cautious!!

Shannon

Catrin

11-22-2010, 10:05 AM

I don't get out nearly as much as I'd like (8-12 miles a week, longest ride 26 miles) to and now the good weather days can be counted on one hand, but I can feel a difference when I'm clipped in and not, so I'll be take your warning and be cautious!!

Shannon

I never dreamed that riding 60 miles for my second ride on clipless pedals might be too much :eek: :rolleyes:

jelee1311

11-27-2010, 08:42 AM

I had some great news last week,at my 3 month check up my DR said my achillies tendon looked great and I could go for harder,longer, rides I just can't ride clipless yet. So to celebrate I went on a hilly 25mile ride. I was really feeling out of shape chugging up the hills with a lot of difficulty. I felt sick enough the next day to go into the clinic,I have strep throat. Thank goodness I just thought I was sandbagging. I took a few days off then we had snow. I made an attempt but it was too slick so I tried my DH rollers inside in the hallway. Wow the rollers made me feel like a clutz, DH likes to show off and ride the no handed. No ride on Thanksgiving ,but I decided to work off pecan pie yesterday. I went for a 21/2 hr ride yesterday (my cateye isn't working ) so I don't know mileage but I'm thinking at least 30miles in our balmy 38 degree weather. Came home cold and happy:D

Kerry1976

12-03-2010, 06:42 PM

Have logged just over 150 miles on my bike since I purchased on October 14!

Now using the trainer as the weather has gotten colder and the snow is starting to fly. Looking forward to getting on the roads regularly again in the spring.

Also thinking about getting my first road bike.

jelee1311

12-03-2010, 11:10 PM

Good job Kerry 1976. Christmas is coming maybe Santa will bring you a road bike!

Kerry1976

12-04-2010, 09:35 AM

Good job Kerry 1976. Christmas is coming maybe Santa will bring you a road bike!

The only santa bringing me my roadie would be me. We'll see! ;)

chicagogal

12-04-2010, 12:27 PM

I was thinking on today's ride that even though I am not exactly a newbie there is ALWAYS something new to learn or experience on the bike, and that is part of what makes riding so much fun!

Today I rode in the snow for the first time. . . .well, the first time in deep powdery snow. With the bike slipping and sliding everywhere, it makes you really rely on core core muscles for balance, you also just have to relax and let the bike do what it needs to do, and trust your body to follow. . . . oh yeah, and it makes you feel like a kid again!

Nessa

12-04-2010, 04:59 PM

I love reading this thread. I just think, "I'm not the only one!" Today, my husband and I went to Little Rock and made the loop over the Big Dam Bridge, to the River Market, ate and then back. It was 17 miles. It was an awesome day for riding (upper 50's/lower 60's). Besides falling over in the parking lot...it was a great ride. I started off too slow and got hung up in those new clipless pedals!

Roadtrip

12-05-2010, 07:37 AM

Been busy since Thanksgiving and haven't been on the bike at all in the last week or so. Ic/snowy outside, so I guess it's time to drag out the trainer, just need to find a place to set it up now that I have the Christmas tree up.

I did maintain my weight through Thanksgiving tho.. which is a GOOD thing with all the pie, cake, and cookies that were around. Now to just to get through the Christmas season with positive weight loss would be huge. So much temptation at work during the season!

Shannon

hebe

12-05-2010, 10:41 AM

I love the idea of Thanksgiving, but my hips are always grateful that we don't have it in the UK. I am trying so hard not to buy the lovely German gingerbread and marzipan goodies that are in my corner supermarket at the moment, I am finally consistently back to pre-baby weight minus 7lbs and don't want to put them back on!

I've not been out riding for nearly 3 weeks :( I was sore, then I had a cold, then it snowed. Hoping to get out this week though, possibly tomorrow if the last of the ice melts. This may be over optimistic given that the temperature is only forecast to go one degree above freezing all week. On Tuesday I'm going to the LBS to have another go at choosing a Christmas bike :D Good times.

editing to add that the forecast for tomorrow is -3degC and light snow (on top of the ice we already have). So no riding tomorrow :(

Roadtrip

12-09-2010, 06:20 AM

I just got word I was one of the winner of my company weight loss challenge.

It's a gift card for $25-50 I think.. I don't remember the exact prize but I get to pick it up today.

For something I was trying to do anyhow.. it worked out twice as good for me.. loose weight and get paid!!!

Shannon

hebe

12-09-2010, 12:06 PM

That's brilliant - well done and have fun spending your gift card!

jelee1311

12-11-2010, 12:16 AM

Good job roadtrip! How cool is that and just in time for christmas or after christmas sales

Bike Writer

12-11-2010, 09:34 AM

Roadtrip your post made me grin. How cool to get rewarded like that!

Kerry1976

12-11-2010, 07:52 PM

Roadtrip your post made me grin. How cool to get rewarded like that!

I couldn't have said it better. You got your own personal reward and then a second reward in the gift card. Congratulations on both!

hebe

12-12-2010, 09:10 AM

I did my first proper ride on my new mountain bike today. 5 miles offroad (felt like more, as always). The bike is so much more stable and fun offroad than my comfort bike. I screwed up on a couple of hills due to stopping for walkers/dogs then being in the wrong gear to get going again, but also got a nice cadence going on a couple of other stretches. I do have a problem with the left thumb shifter, it has too much travel in it so I'll see if the shop can do anything about that. I'm not 100% sold on the pedals either, they seem to have rather less traction than the ones on my Marin, especially when wet.

Beautiful ride today though. Stunning views over rolling fields, there's still a bit of snow and ice around (I LOVE frozen puddles!) and the bike just kept making me laugh. The chain came off once, but went back on ok and I came off once after a dodgy start but was fine, just a bit muddy. 3 degrees or thereabout, but I was toasty warm.

Roadtrip

12-12-2010, 09:41 AM

Your rides sounds sublime!! I got out yesterday too. It got up to 45F here yesterday, so I got about seven miles in, which may turn out to be the last ride for awhile. Woke to snow on the ground this morning, so while it really makes it fee like Christmas tho, it also means it's the trainer or nothing.

Shannon

Bike Writer

12-12-2010, 05:19 PM

hebe

12-13-2010, 06:40 AM

Roadtrip

12-13-2010, 07:13 AM

Hebe - Sounds like your having too much fun and learning loads. Brilliant that the bike shop guy could guide you through making that shifter adjuster on your own. I know how to change a flat in theory, but have not actually TRIED it, to which I should. So I will endeavor to be a pro at changing a flat before the winter is out.

Oh, we need some good action shots, the more mud the better :D

No biking for me today either...
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs380.ash2/65879_1679937725657_1453956770_1735038_6520538_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs597.ash2/154904_1679933245545_1453956770_1735033_5294419_n.jpg

hebe

12-13-2010, 07:25 AM

oh wow! That looks like the Gingerbread House in Hansel and Gretel. Beautiful!

I shall try to oblige with muddy action shots :)

Bike Writer

12-13-2010, 10:33 AM

Bike Writer

12-13-2010, 10:34 AM

Your decorated home is picture perfect! Thanks for sharing.

jelee1311

12-18-2010, 10:07 AM

Roadtrip your house is so pretty. I haven't been on much lately but I just wanted to say congrats Hebe on the new bike & finally getting to ride it:D I read some of your blog and I like it. I haven't been riding much, strep throat (still),tooo much rain and cold,and no time.hopefully ill get out this weekend if we don't get snow.

chicagogal

12-18-2010, 11:01 AM

Thank you!

I am glowing with achievement today, despite the bike not leaving the garage. I phoned the LBS to ask about the shifter and the pedals. He talked me through how to move the shifter to get a better angle, and suggested that I try swapping the pedals between bikes if I prefer the Marin pedals. I'd wondered about that but wasn't sure about asking in case it would invalidate the warranty. He said he'd be more than happy to do it, but talked me through how to do it so that I wouldn't need to drive the bike in. So I have swapped pedals between my bikes, adjusted the shifter position and also removed the bell for good measure (calling out to people seems to work better). Next task is to learn how to change a tube. Now that I have two bikes I can do the learning things on the Marin without taking the Spesh out of use. :D I just have to ask Mr Hebe to check that the pedals are on as tight as possible, then I'll get out on the bike again on Friday and check my work! I'm still a little sore from yesterday's ride to take it out again today.

Congrats on making those adjustments on your own. It is so important to be able to work on your bike, and understand how it works. I can do little things, but when it comes to drive train adjustments I usually leave it to the LBS, not because I don't know how to do it (I do) but because I am SOOO PICKY that my own work is never good enough for me :-(

For your pedals, you can certainly have your husband tighten them for you if that will make you feel more comfortable. However, pedals tighten when you ride, so I don't think you actually have much to worry about.

hebe

12-18-2010, 12:57 PM

Thank you! I used to do the servicing on my first car, so I would like to be able to do the basics on my bike. There's something very nice about pottering in the garage with a spanner.

I didn't know that about the pedals, thanks. Once the snow is gone (again) I shall get out there and tighten them the fun way.

Kerry1976

12-20-2010, 07:03 PM

I've ridden a few miles on my new bike on the trainer. I got a mile outside as the pavement was reasonable enough that I could avoid icy spots. Didn't crash - which was great. Learning proper mount/dismount, clipping in/out and steering - which was a surprise. kept over/under correcting. Another big thing to learn - different posture. Gosh, this is like starting over! :)

Kerry1976

12-21-2010, 12:42 PM

For the first time in my life today, I was able to successful mount and start a bike from a dead stop. I had never been able to do that before. After reading here the tips on it and watching the Sheldon Brown video (also posted somewhere on the forums - thanks to the person who did that!), I thought I could do it. I tried it yesterday but simply wasn't doing it right. So did more reading last night and decided I'd try switching legs - and today I did it...over and over again. Will be interesting to see if I can do tomorrow (or whenever I can get back outside again). Also was able to properly stop and clip out without crashing - which is also a victory. All this is new to me!

Roadtrip

12-21-2010, 01:30 PM

I'd like to report I've rode a Century, lost sixty more pounds, bought and totally dominated on a road bike, and finished first place in my very first Cross race.

Ohhhhhh... I was supposed to report what I had accomplished, not what I was dreaming about. In that case... I... Ummmm... Don't have much to report. It's been snowy, frozen, and unridable for the last month. The one day it reached the 40's we got out and rode, but I've been a slug when it comes to the bike and gained two pounds as a result.

Shannon

hebe

12-21-2010, 01:49 PM

Go Kerry! I'm still learning that, combined with easing my saddle up that last half an inch or so. You must feel close on unstoppable now!

Shannon, 2lbs is standard deviation, I promise. I haven't been out in a few days either, the snow just seems to keep coming.

I've just parcelled up a perfume that I sold on ebay to put towards a proper cycling jacket. I'm certainly learning the value of proper cold weather gear, even if my snuggly tights have almost put in as many miles trudging through the snow on foot as on the bike. I love my perfumes, but they don't tone my bottom, improve my asthma or get me out in the fresh air so I'm happy to let one go for a higher purpose.

Roadtrip

12-21-2010, 02:20 PM

I've just parcelled up a perfume that I sold on ebay to put towards a proper cycling jacket.

We've decided to sell our first bikes and have someone coming tomorrow to look at dh's trek pure. We just can't see a reason to keep now that we have the faster and lighter bikes. If this pans out it will be nearly $400 for toward credit cards, etc. If I can sell mine double that.

Shannon

Roadtrip

12-31-2010, 09:18 PM

Weather cooperated today and got out for a quick 6 mile ride, over slightly hilly road here in Tennessee where we are visiting family, but legs were really cranky due to nearly a month off the bike.

Shannon

hebe

01-01-2011, 07:39 AM

Lucky you! Our house guests have just left and the weather has returned to freezing fog and/or rain. If I leave it much longer I'll forget how to ride.

cyclinginmd

01-01-2011, 11:24 AM

hope no one minds me jumping in. a little info about me: my name is kim, and i'm 22. i've had my bike for about a year and half, but haven't done much riding. anyway, today i got on the trainer for 40 minutes. haven't exercised in forever, so it's a (small) start, but a start nonetheless

Kerry1976

01-01-2011, 12:40 PM

hebe

01-01-2011, 02:51 PM

What a great start to the new year! Well done, and welcome!

hebe

01-02-2011, 01:48 PM

Well, the freezing fog didn't appear today, just the freezing bit, so dh took dd and I got out for a 6mile ride on my mountain bike! It was very muddy, it amazes me how the same ride changes with the state of the ground. Quite busy today, there were lots of recreational vehicules out which made it harder work. My asthma is pretty bad after an extended spell of feeling under the weather, so I had to walk both my nemesis hills. My top speed was just under 12mph, when I picked up speed on a shingly downhill stretch. I then hit a muddy patch wrong at the bottom and came off :D Lots of work to do and things to learn.

Here a few pics of where I went, one showing my muddy mud tyres, and one of my view when I looked down.

Kerry1976

01-02-2011, 02:52 PM

Today I went to try my first spinervals workout on the trainer and realized my back tire was flat. I found the culprit immediately - a shard of glass I ran over when practicing clipping in and out on my 2 miler in the parking lots a few days ago. :(

Well, fortunately, I had a flat tire needing changed right in the comfort of my living room. I pulled out the spare tube, the tire levers, a pump and my computer (so I could follow how-to videos). I first learned how to take the back tire off. Then I changed the tire. Should note that changing the tire took FOREVER. However, I know how to do it and won't EVER forget how now.

After all that, I wasn't about to let that stop me from my workout. And so far, the tire appears to be holding air. So, I'll consider it a victory!

Kerry1976

01-02-2011, 02:55 PM

Nice ride, Hebe. Fighting asthma, mud, cold and a fall - you are TOUGH!

mudmucker

01-02-2011, 03:30 PM

Hebe, keep showing pictures of your rides. It's been fun watching. Love to see people's rides in places other than New England and USA.

Bike Writer

01-02-2011, 04:18 PM

cyclinginmd - Welcome!

Boy there are lots of great rides continuing to go on, thanks for the photos hebe. You have the "right stuff" for cycling.

I have no accomplishment to announce. There was a small window of opportunity with a very warm day (47 around these parts in the winter is very warm) but it rained quite hard for most of that. I had a one hour rain free period in there but my bike is still in the shop. Boo.

FunSize

01-02-2011, 06:43 PM

Since i now work in retail with my new glorious job of answering phones at a best buy there wasn't a whole lot of riding for the past 2 and a half months. Which made me very sad, since i like being active.

I did however go out for a ride on my day off. It was almost 60 degrees outside! My bf had bought be a nice long-sleeve craft jersey for Christmas with wind blocking panels so i was excited to try it on and use it. Even though I hadn't been on my bike much (twice on my trainer before this outing) I felt pretty good. Though i was not very fast, avg 13 mph.

The only interesting thing that happened on my ride was that I got into a higher gear to sprint past 3 slow going guys... narrowly missing the oncoming path goers. (it was clear when i decided to pass). I weaved to the right and back left to pass another guy on a bike who, even though I yelled out to him, tried to pass the same person on the right. So, because he didn't see me he almost sideswiped me! So... i guess i just felt proud that I didn't lose control of my bike! Didn't even wobble!

I feel a little guilty about being reckless on the bike path, but... hey... i didn't hit anyone!

hebe

01-03-2011, 03:50 AM

Congratulations on the new job, Funsize, there's not much out there at the moment. How lovely to get out on your day off, and well done on the wobble-free passing! I'd love to have an average speed of 13mph, but don't think that will happen on any of the off-road rides I do at the moment.

Kerry, great stuff on a solo tyre change, did you repair the puncture or replace the tube? I think this has to be one of my nursery-morning tasks, especially now that I can learn on the comfort bike.

BikeWriter, at least your bike is in the shop during the worst of the weather. After January, February is a nice short month and then March is almost spring (not that I'm wishing away the year at all!)

Thanks everyone for all the lovely comments. My asthma seems a bit better today so I think the exercise helped. I just love off-road riding, it gives me time on my own and a mind completely cleared of errands, family stuff and so on. I'm feeling it a bit today in the very tops of my arms and my quads, but thankfully the new saddle seems to be a huge improvement. It's been snowing again this morning so I'm very happy I got out yesterday.

Kerry1976

01-03-2011, 01:06 PM

Kerry, great stuff on a solo tyre change, did you repair the puncture or replace the tube? I think this has to be one of my nursery-morning tasks, especially now that I can learn on the comfort bike.

I replaced the tube! :)

hebe

01-06-2011, 09:01 AM

Excellent!

I took the saddle (still on the seatpost) from my Marin to the lbs yesterday and asked for something like the Sonoma that's on my Spesh. I came out with another Sonoma that was fitted on the seatpost while I waited. I put it on the bike today and finally worked out how to adjust the tilt of the saddle :D It was pouring with rain so I didn't get out to test it, and there is snow forecast again for tomorrow, but hopefully I'll get out on one of the bikes on Saturday or Sunday. I need to work out if I can live with the original plastic pedals from the Spesh, that are now on the Marin. I didn't think I liked them, but I had normal shoes on today and they didn't seem too bad for a bike that will only be gently off-roading.

I'm also hoping to go on this (http://www.mbswindon.co.uk/ridgeway-ride-feb-2011/): a novice ride that's coming up at the beginning of February. I need to get my mileage up a bit through January. but that should be do-able. I'm hoping to go on one of their ladies days later in the year too, sadly I can't make the one this weekend.

hebe

01-07-2011, 05:29 AM

I've bought a metal basket for the front of the Marin, so I can use it for shopping and start getting my mileage up that way. I was catching my feet on the panniers :(

Roadtrip

01-07-2011, 06:00 AM

Had a friend over for dinner so, Christmas Tree came down and after dinner I drug out the trainer, which is now in it's place. I got on for a quick look-see to make sure things were right and before I knew it I had done 4 miles in about 15 minutes. Put new Brooks saddle on the bike, so tonight I'll give it a go and give it a real test run, this time without three glasses of wine in me!! Defiantly out of the norm for me, but hey, live once in a while right?

Shannon

hebe

01-09-2011, 07:39 AM

Brooks saddle, very nice! And your verdict?

I didn't get out this weekend :( I was all kitted up and ready to go this morning, pulled up the garage door and somehow caught the other side on a set of glass shelves which should have been safely out of range. You can guess what happened. 20 minutes of sweeping later I set off with the bike, slid across the black ice coating the road, and decided that we didn't actually need a bottle of gin and a pack of frozen peas that badly. I'm a little bit gutted, it was going to be my first ever proper errand run on the bike, with the new basket. Oh well.

Roadtrip

01-09-2011, 01:59 PM

Brooks saddle, very nice! And your verdict?

I'll withhold verdict for the moment. First time I got on the bike with the new saddle, my back-side barked and wasn't happy, this was just sitting on the bike and doing some light spinning. Felt a lot of pressure on my sit-bones. My old saddle is about the same width, but is a gel padded saddle, so while the Brooks wasn't NEEDED Santa brought me some Christmas money.

I found that my leg was flexing/bent too much with this new saddle, so when I raised the saddle about a half inch the discomfort was much less, or non existent. May not have been connected, but my position was much better, which I think did help.

I did seven miles on the trainer with my padded shorts and felt pretty good (my arse wasn't yelling, but my calf that kept cramping up on my and getting tight WAS), even tho I could tell there was some soft tissue bruising or something going on because even off the bike I could feel a little discomfort, depending on how I was sitting.

I climbed on the trainer with just my jeans yesterday to feel how it felt and could barely sit on the bike due to the achy back-side. I kept shifting my position and trying to find a comfortable with no luck. I'll try and get some more trainer time in tonight or tomorrow and see if I can work through these issues!!

Shannon

Bike Writer

01-10-2011, 02:11 PM

Not much of an accomplishment yet but it's a start. Got my bike hooked up on my trainer and began to ride again yesterday. Yeah, it's not like outside riding at all and it's kind of sucky but it is far better than no activity and I feel confident that continued use will give me a leg up when the biking season is back in the spring. Yay! It sure feels good to have the wheels going round again.

hebe

01-11-2011, 12:52 AM

I hope you can bend that saddle to your will/butt soon, Shannon.

Good luck with your trainer Bike Writer.

There is rain forecast for the next five days here :( I don't mind a bit of mud but I do mind rain, so it looks like no riding until the weekend. Who knows what shape the trails will be in after 5 days of rain, so I might plan for a road-based ride rather than off-road.

Roadtrip

01-11-2011, 06:07 AM

I hope you can bend that saddle to your will/butt soon

I did eight miles last night in about twenty five minutes and felt pretty good. No cramping in the legs and once I found a comfy spot on the saddle my backside was OK.

I should have this saddle nice and broken in by spring at this rate. Looking forward to nicer weather!!!

Shannon

Kerry1976

01-15-2011, 07:47 PM

Last month I got a flat and changed my first tire. Fortunately, it was in my kitchen! :) I inspected the tires on my bike, as it was used, and decided it would be a good idea to go new. So, I ordered Conti GP4000s from Amazon and they arrived yesterday. Tonight I changed out my tires. So, when I have a flat on the road (it is inevitable, right?) and need to do a roadside repair, I can at least take comfort in the knowledge that I have successfully changed 3 tires.

Roadtrip

01-17-2011, 12:26 PM

So, when I have a flat on the road (it is inevitable, right?) and need to do a roadside repair, I can at least take comfort in the knowledge that I have successfully changed 3 tires.

Great for you. I am looking at attending one of the Saturday morning clinics at my LBS basic bike repair/maintenance.

Still bitter cold here, so no outdoor riding, just me and the trainer logging a modest 26 miles this week.

Shannon

hebe

01-18-2011, 02:09 AM

The rain has stopped! We have two days of sun forecast, then it clouds over just in time for my two mornings of childcare :( Hopefully I will be out on Thursday though! My garden is like a quagmire after 10days of rain, and all the snow beforehand, I dread to think what state the bridleways will be in.

26miles still sounds pretty good to me. I have pretty much cleared the ironing pile, set up my new sewing machine, repaired some pillowcases and chosen some curtain poles. Productive, but I'd still rather be on a bike!

Catrin

01-18-2011, 10:52 AM

...I climbed on the trainer with just my jeans yesterday to feel how it felt and could barely sit on the bike due to the achy back-side. I kept shifting my position and trying to find a comfortable with no luck. I'll try and get some more trainer time in tonight or tomorrow and see if I can work through these issues!!

Shannon

Perhaps it would be a good idea to wait until your discomfort has left first? You were probably planning on this, but I wanted to make that suggestion.

Roadtrip

01-18-2011, 12:18 PM

Brooks saddle is feeling better. MUCH better.

Shannon

Kerry1976

01-18-2011, 05:12 PM

Brooks saddle is feeling better. MUCH better.

Shannon

Which Brooks do you have?

I got a B17 Imperial for myself for Xmas, and I had no break in period at all. It was perfect (so lucky!). I'm glad you are finding yours to be more comfortable.

Roadtrip

01-18-2011, 05:48 PM

Which Brooks do you have?

It's a B17, but the standard one (tho not the short "S" or narrow) Brooks B17.

sempernova

01-19-2011, 07:53 AM

I rode 15 miles CLIPLESS for the first time last Sunday!!! I've been practicing on my trainer which I would highly recommend before hitting the road.

Kerry1976

01-19-2011, 12:22 PM

It's a B17, but the standard one (tho not the short "S" or narrow) Brooks B17.

Okay, mine is the Imperial (with the cut out) but the standard one in general size (not narrow or short either)

Kerry1976

01-19-2011, 12:23 PM

I rode 15 miles CLIPLESS for the first time last Sunday!!! I've been practicing on my trainer which I would highly recommend before hitting the road.

Oh my gosh - that is fantastic. I bet you are thrilled!!!!!!!

sempernova

01-19-2011, 12:43 PM

I am!!!!

hebe

01-20-2011, 01:34 PM

Yay for clipless and comfy saddles!

I finally rode into town on my bike and did car-free errands for the first time in a long time (not counting when my errands have been light enough to walk). I was so proud of myself, and felt so liberated in not having to find a parking space, pay for parking, remember to back in time.... It was a gloriously sunny day but very cold: minus 2C, 28F. I also wore my normal boots, which was a first too, and rode the Marin which feels like a different bike now that it has a better saddle. In fact I feel like a different woman now that it has a new saddle! I can't wait to phone my cycling instructor and tell her that I've done the errands by bike, she'll be so chuffed. I rode part of the way back along the cycle lane on the main road, which was something that I've been nervous about for a while. It was absolutely fine. Can't wait to do it again!

Roadtrip

01-20-2011, 02:21 PM

Bravo hebe!! I love the feeling of liberation and achievement.

For the moment, I'll gladly live vicariously though you, at least until this snow melts.

Shannon

FunSize

01-20-2011, 07:47 PM

Hebe,
In the summer my bf and I can walk to the grocery store. Its a little less than a mile. But its so fun and liberating to be able to do errands without a car! Its nice to slow down a little. I'm glad you still went out when it was that cold! Now I feel like a wuss for not doing it when its only 45F. I enjoy reading your posts because you're always so excited and clearly your bike adventures make you very happy!

Roadtrip

01-22-2011, 11:41 AM

Did my weekly weigh in and I've dropped the three pounds I'd gained over the Holidays. Yeaaaa me!! Oh course I've indulged movie theater popcorn and pizza today. I'll just do a few extra miles on the trainer!!

Shannon

sempernova

01-22-2011, 01:17 PM

I gained 5 lbs during the hols but only have 1\2 lb left to drop!! Darn cookies and booze!!!:D

Roadtrip

01-30-2011, 11:20 AM

Yesterday I got to test a few new potential new bikes. DH promised a new roadie come spring so trying to get an idea of what it is I want.

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=41253

Not much outside of that, at least bike-wise, just doing my trainer work when I can. It's been pretty nice weather last few days so it's killing me I can't be outside.

Starting new job this week and traveling today for training and will be gone two weeks.

Off to finish packing.

Shannon

hebe

02-03-2011, 02:26 PM

I hope your training is going ok, Shannon.

I rode into town again today to do the errands. I guess I really can do it now, seeing as that's the second time. I still pushed the bike for a couple of short sections, and the journey home is a lot slicker due to a left turn onto a main road rather than a right turn off it (I know it's the other way around for most of you guys who drive on the right). I rode a new section of towpath too, which was satisfying and saved me a couple of hundred yards of road.

Roadtrip

02-04-2011, 10:05 AM

Thanks Hebe, training is going well. Just long, long days, twelve hours of training a day which leaves little time to hit the pool or exercise facilities here at the hotel. By the time I get dinner (my waistline is not going to like these two weeks), I just want to go to bed.

I long for my bike... my dh and comfy bed.. Sacrifice for the greater good.

Lunch is almost over!! Later gals (and guys)!!

Shannon

hebe

02-11-2011, 12:17 PM

How did it go, Shannon, are you back now?

We got home today from a 4 day break at a forest holiday resort just a few miles from here. We hired mountain bikes and a trailer, and I fulfilled my ambition to ride on a bike with small girl. She absolutely loved it, and had the mother of all tantrums when her trailer was found to have rainwater in the footwell this morning. I didn't find it hard at all, though to be fair I did the downhill stretch, and Mr Hebe is now talking enthusiastically about buying a trailer as it was so sturdy and easy.

I rode at least once every day :D gradually adjusting the saddle up as their default setting was for flat foot on the floor when seated (I guess they get a lot of people who haven't ridden in years). It was great and I can't wait to go back there with my sisters in the summer!

Roadtrip

02-12-2011, 04:05 PM

I got back into town last night. Long two weeks. I did find time to ride the bike in the small exercise room at the hotel, but only a few times in the two weeks I was there, but I'm home now. So glad to be home and sleeping in my own bed again!!

We went over to the Trek dealer today and I rode the Lexa and a Madone 4.5 and have to be honest I am still a fan of the Specialized Ruby. The Ruby was much more comfortable "out of the box" and I just didn't have that weeeee feeling while riding either Trek.

The saddle on the Trek was pretty crappy compared to the Specialized and I know that's always something you can swap. The Madone is $2,000 and the Ruby is $1,800 (old stock, but not in my size, so if I had to order the 2011 I'd pay close to $600 more for same level of bike) as they downgraded some of the components on the entry level Ruby this year. It has SRAM Apex versus the Shimano 105

More research... more debate... LOL

Weather is supposed to be nice tomorrow and hoping to get out for a ride!!

Shannon

Roadtrip

02-13-2011, 02:50 PM

We finally got out today as it was nearly 60 degrees and clear skies. GREAT cycling weather. Just one thing... it was blowing 20-25 MPH... which was NOT so great. We hadn't been out for awhile (much too long) and it showed. My legs were really barking at me. The good thing is I was MUCH more at ease on the trail then I was last year on this same trail.

I think I've also made a decision on the new roadie too. My local shop is transferring a Specialized Ruby in my size from another store so I can test ride it. It's a new old stock 2009 model, so it's marked down, which would save me a good deal of money. I wanted to fall in love with the Madone 4.5 I rode, but I just didn't, plus saving $500 isn't bad either!!

Shannon

hebe

02-14-2011, 07:48 AM

How exciting!

Congratulations on getting out to ride too. I was re-reading a cycling roadcraft book last night and thinking how much more of it makes sense now.

hebe

02-14-2011, 01:52 PM

I tried the child-seat on the bike today. Not a huge success - cycling with it was fine but stopping was not good and I dropped the bike with small girl on it :( Luckily just on the grass, and not far as I caught the bike and she was helmetted and well strapped in so completely unhurt, but I still feel pretty bad about it. I think I will try again - was practising with a 28lb bag of potatoes this afternoon - but I think I will get a trailer for her.

Roadtrip

02-14-2011, 05:00 PM

Oh Hebe, so sorry to hear about your troubles with the child-seat and glad your little one was not hurt, but don't give up!!

Shannon

Ellie24

02-17-2011, 12:59 PM

Hey Folks,

Can somebody give me a heads up on these bikeability lessons? Are they UK-based? I've been riding to work for 4 months now, but I'm a bit clumsy and am wondering if it would be worth giving a course ago, especially as I have terrible problems indicating right (don't laugh, well, you can if you want to :p).

hebe

02-17-2011, 01:15 PM

Are you in the UK Ellie? It's the replacement for the old Cycling Proficiency Test. I found my instructor by asking at a local bike shop, but you can also ring your local council and ask for details of cycle training for adults. There's also a Cyclecraft book by John Franklin that I think covers everything.

I wobble on left-turn signals until I've worked up a bit of speed. But not as much as I did.

Hello and welcome!

isconniethere

02-17-2011, 07:37 PM

Welcome, I am new to the community as well, but have been biking for about 10 years.
Hope to hear more from you, welcome!
Connie

ButIDidntFall

02-19-2011, 12:54 PM

Hi i'm new :)
On a ride in the park this week I learned to eat ( sorta) I grabbed a piece of a clif bar from a friend and shoved the whole thing in my mouth. I mumbled now what!!?? (I still had the wrapper in my hand) I said wait.. i can do it.. I reached back and put the wrapper in back pocket of my jacket, like it was nothing. Then I screamed " Oh my god , did you see that!!??" My friend was like what??? He was not as amazed at my feat. But I was proud of myself. I forced him to high five me :) On the way home ..I was so excited and confident I grabbed a water bottle, took a sip and magically put it back in the cage. I accomplished alot that night, doesn't sound like much but at one point I was convinced I would never be able to do it.

hebe

02-19-2011, 02:22 PM

LOL! I was the same the first time I wiped my nose whilst riding. I haven't mastered the water bottle yet though :)

Hello and welcome!

ButIDidntFall

02-23-2011, 07:19 AM

thanks :)
I wouldn't say i've mastered the water bottle hahah... I need to learn it when i'm going faster. My friend told me to coast a little when i'm removing it, my frame is so tiny that if i'm pedaling i might hit my arm/leg/bottle/frame/crash. need more practice! or maybe a 25 oz bottle is too big.

Catrin

02-23-2011, 08:20 AM

I use a Camelbak, problem solved :) In the summer it is full of ice so it keeps my back cool and it is just a little quick movement to get the hydration I need. I do not find it overly heavy, and it fits my needs just fine.

I do have two bottles with me as well in warmer weather, but I do not try to drink from them while riding - and one of them is just for pouring over my head if I need it :) For full disclosure I must admit that I do go for long rides out in the country where there are few places to refill bottles - so it is best for me to take as much water as I can so I don't run out. Have I ever really TRIED to drink from my bottle while riding - no....

Roadtrip

02-23-2011, 05:57 PM

I got out on the new bike tonight and all I can say is I hurt. Hand, forearms, and bum hurts... I also feel it in my core and legs, but a good tired.

I played around just getting used to the gears and the like. DH teased me and said... is that as fast as you can go... all the while we were cruising at a "get used to the bike" speed. I said, I could go faster if I wanted to!! I geared down and increased speed until I ran out of gears on the back. I then changed down to the big gear on the front. Mistake now I know-- I moved to the hardest small gear on the inner ring to the HARDEST on the large chain ring-- I've only got a double (I'm used to my Triple.) At least my legs were feeling good and I just mashed down, which was like riding a rocket, WOW. I've never felt anything like that. DH said he was doing close to 20mph, and I was pulling away from him still, until I slowed down round the bend in the road.

I also nearly lost it when gearing down again to sprint toward the end of the ride and my foot slipped on the pedal... throwing my balance was off to one side and I swerved and thought I was going down, but was able to slow and regain control. She was just showing me to respect her and pay attention!! LOL.

Shannon

Zenn

02-25-2011, 05:06 AM

What a lovely thread!

I am new here but thought i could tell you about my cycling story so far... I am really over weight, needing to lose about 80lbs. I brought a bike about 8 months ago and have taken to it really well. Whilst i have not lost any weight as yet (that is a rant and a dissappointment at the same time), i have gone further in my cycling.

When i got the bike home i battled to stay upright. I was also so unfit i could not cycle the 300m to the end of my street.

Two weeks ago i rode 63km in a cycle event. I came stone last but my goal was to finish, not to win nor to even cross the line with everyone else. I just wanted to finish. It was the longest i had ever ridden in my life and this weekend i have another 65km event. But i am not sure how far i will go, i may stop at around 40kms and jump onto a sweep vehicle.

So it can be done, even when really fat! Problem i have now though, is to get used to the road bike i just brought today... Will update with how it goes.

hebe

02-27-2011, 02:00 AM

Hello and welcome Zenn! Congratulations on starting cycling and on your rides so far, hopefully the weight loss will follow.

I'm a bit :( today - it's a gorgeous day, Mr Hebe is back from the States, but I have put my neck out from 2 weeks with a sad toddler missing her daddy and requiring much carrying. Pain-killers aren't really helping, so all my cycling plans have been abandonned. Tomorrow might be possible though, and I have a refresher session booked with my cycling instructor on Thursday.

deeaimond

02-27-2011, 02:32 AM

Hi, I'm glad to see this thread. I've been cycling for a few years but kinda fell off the bandwagon last year, only cycling sporadically.

My last major ride was about half a year ago and even then not much, just 80kms.

So when I made a resolution to get on my bike more this year. I'm pleased to say i went for some proper cycles the last three weekends. started off with a short 30kms ride 2 weekends ago. then last weekend i rode 65kms with my old gang. they left me in the dust but at each point at least one guy stayed back to ride with me.

today i rode 80kms. it was hard and my whole body hurt. but i'm glad i did it. was left behind each time again but one guy would always try to stay with me

need to do some secret training and start getting back to speed again.

looking forward to seeing more progress from everyone!

FunSize

02-27-2011, 07:27 PM

Yesterday I did a "fitness test" which was ride up paris mountain and see how long it takes me. Its proabably only a little over 2 miles, but it averages about 6%. I did it in 20min! Which... in comparison, my bf did it in 12 and george hincapie climbs it in probably 9 minutes. Fit fast girls probably do it in 11:30.

I'm not fast, but I did it. And I didn't stop or cry or hyperventilate. I just sat there an suffered for 20 minutes. Now after training ill be able to see if I've actually improved, too.

Roadtrip

03-03-2011, 07:00 PM

Tried to get out for a ride yesterday, but by the time we got home from work, loaded up and ready the sun was already fading. Arrived only to find the park closed due to flooding and trail completely under water. We had loads of rain Sunday/Monday, but I didn't expect high water on Thursday, so we had to bail on the ride as no time to get to alternate riding spot.

Tonight we got home and off we go...

Ride was great... right up to the end... flooded road/trail right next to the golf course and we had to hike/carry bikes across muddy flooded field, but much preferred to the two feet of water covering the trail.

Got back on the bike after our little off-road adventure and feet promptly slipped right off pedals (wet shoes) which was fun!!

More rain coming for the next three days, so I'm expecting more flooding, but I'm going to have to find another place to ride in the short term-- when it's not raining!!

Now to go clean my new bike... GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRr.

Shannon

hebe

03-04-2011, 06:17 AM

Wow Funsize, looking forward to reading more as your time improves!

Shannon, you've had such bad luck with the weather these last few months. Hopefully the rain is a sign of things warming up and it won't be long before you're out on your clean new bike much more often.

I've had a brilliant morning. It was my first session with my cycling instructor since last November, when she broke her hand. We had a recap, then she showed me another route into town which basically takes out a stretch of very busy road. I also rode in the very centre of town for the first time, couldn't quite believe I was doing it, and it was nowhere near as bad as I'd imagined. The new route into town will also give me a flattish route to dd's nursery with less traffic, and I'm still really tempted to get a trailer. Anyway, my instructor was really thrilled with how my riding has improved over the winter, and she has offered to ride with me whenever I want for no lesson fee now, which I appreciate hugely though I'll still give her something for her time.

My mountain bike is due in for its first free service, and my Marin is also due in for a free check. It will be wonderful to ride the Marin to the bike shop myself :)

linzq

03-04-2011, 09:28 AM

I love this thread! What a great way to cheer on progress!!!

I just bought my first road bike (Cannondale 2011 CAAD10 Women's with Shimano 105) on Tuesday!!!!

My partner (a very experienced and speedy road rider) will show me how to set it up on the trainer tonight! We're talking about picking up a second trainer this weekend at the local bike show so we can train indoors together.

I am super excited to get out on the roads once it warms up here, and start adding my improvements to this thread!

jelee1311

03-04-2011, 11:02 AM

I'm so happy, I finally got the okay from the Doctor to ride clipless.Its been really windy snowy so I wanted to wait to use cleats because I felt and still feel a bit apprehensive about them. Its been almost a year since I injured my achilles so its been a year since I clipped in. I just jumped in and did it ,I rode 15miles,up some hills and I didn't crash! I'm still a little shaky about using them cuz I have crashed a few times when I couldn't unclip. It felt good to be able to go faster easier. Next I plan on actually getting my butt out of the saddle on the big hills :D

redrhodie

03-07-2011, 12:57 PM

Hey, I get to post in the newbie achievement thread! I just rode to the store in street clothes. I had on a dress and boots. I always ride in cycling clothes and shoes. This might be a life changing ride, where cycling becomes more spontaneous, and less planned. I felt very chic, I must say. ;)

The funny thing is, I still turned my ankle to unclip even though I wasn't clipped in. You'll see, once you get used to clipless pedals, riding without them feels really weird, especially on those tiny little SPDs. I've had this idea that I would forget how to ride without clipping in, but it was all good. Yay!

hebe

03-07-2011, 02:17 PM

I like cycling in normal clothes, and am looking forward to buying a couple of cycling-friendly dresses when the weather warms up a bit.

Tri Girl

03-07-2011, 06:28 PM

I just rode to the store in street clothes. I had on a dress and boots. I always ride in cycling clothes and shoes. This might be a life changing ride, where cycling becomes more spontaneous, and less planned. I felt very chic, I must say. ;)

YAY!!!!:D:D:D:D
That's the way cycling SHOULD be: spontaneous and less planned. I need to go somewhere so I get on my bike and GO! ;)
Even tho I ride every day to work, I've only done it once in my work clothes. It DID feel nice to just get on the bike and ride. Because you posted this- I'm going to try to ride to work in my work clothes more often (well, maybe in April once it warms up to the 60's in the mornings).

redrhodie

03-08-2011, 05:38 AM

I may have created a monster, because now I decided if I could ride in my engineer boots, I should be able to ride in these (with 3" heels that I totally can't walk in, and I walk a lot). If I can ride in them, I'll actually be able to wear them! I still think I won't be able to ride on clogs, yet, my shoe of choice most days. We'll see what happens by summer. Maybe by then I'll be more skilled, and will be able to master the backless shoe! A goal!

It would be great if cycling becomes even more integrated into my life. Right now, it's still a "sport", even though I do commute to work by bike. There's still the clothes changing, and bike readying. My work commute is 14 miles OW, so do need to wear a chamois and cleats, but for riding around town for errands, I should be able to ride more than I do.

Oh no, am I headed toward getting a Mixte? I really, really, really don't have room for another bike (unless I move to a bigger apartment :o). I'm signing a new lease this month. Any new bikes will have to wait at least a year.

jessmarimba

03-11-2011, 05:35 PM

Not a riding achievement.

But I've had a bike for 5 years and just changed my first tire. Got to the parking lot to go for a ride, pulled the bike out, and the back (oh yes, I had to start with the hard one) tire was completely flat. I suppose this was inevitably what I deserved for going to ride knowing that I had no spare tubes or air source with me.

The only bad part was inflating the tire. I have presta-to-schrader adapters on my other bike and I thought, oh, let's make this easy and use those! Only they unscrew the inner part of the valve stem on these tubes when you take them off, and then ALL of the air goes out, immediately. I found this out after I inflated the tire the first time, and it took me about 20 minutes to figure out how to make my floor pump shove air into presta valves.

All fixed. Now it's too dark to ride, but at least the bike is ready for Sunday!

linzq

03-12-2011, 06:08 AM

Congrats on fixing your flat tire, jessmarimba! That's something I need to learn before I get out on the road!

hebe

03-12-2011, 06:15 AM

I may have created a monster, because now I decided if I could ride in my engineer boots, I should be able to ride in these (with 3" heels that I totally can't walk in, and I walk a lot). If I can ride in them, I'll actually be able to wear them! I still think I won't be able to ride on clogs, yet, my shoe of choice most days. We'll see what happens by summer. Maybe by then I'll be more skilled, and will be able to master the backless shoe! A goal!

So, did you ride in the red heels yet, red?

Not a riding achievement.

But I've had a bike for 5 years and just changed my first tire. ... All fixed. Now it's too dark to ride, but at least the bike is ready for Sunday!

That sounds like an achievement to me! Enjoy your ride tomorrow.

I've a couple of small achievements. I fitted both my Specialized and my daughter into my little car, and got both bike and girl to the bike shop without either of them coming to grief. I've ordered a child trailer too, so from next weekend I will no longer need childcare in order to go for a ride!

redrhodie

03-12-2011, 07:11 AM

So, did you ride in the red heels yet, red?

Not yet. We a couple of rain days, and those boots are vegetable dyed, and can't get wet. Today is my city's very popular St. Patrick's Day parade, so again, not riding to the store. Too crazy here this weekend. I'll do it during the week.

Excellent on getting the trailer! She's going to love it, and I bet it will be a lot easier to maneuver. The days of dropping the bike with her on it are over!

Nats

03-12-2011, 12:27 PM

Hi all, I'm new round these parts and am very glad to have found somewhere to discuss my new interest..cycling.

I used to be very into cycling but this was 16 years ago (I haven't sat on a bike since); I am now I am 33 years old and morbidly obese..5'2" and 16st 12 (236lb) :(

However I have finally gotten round to buying myself a bike and am determined to shift some of this weight, get fit and have fun. My family and I have booked a holiday to Mexico in August so this is part of my motivation!

The bike I bought is a Voodoo Marasa hybrid. I got it 2 weeks ago and have so far been out every day.

The first day I went out I was really shocked and embarrassed that I could only do a meesly 1.12 miles (in 12 minutes) - but I am now doing a quite hilly route of 3 miles in 20 minutes which comparing to you guys is nothing - but I keep telling myself it is better than doing the nothing I wasn't doing before!

So hopefully I can share the rest of my firsts here with you!

(sorry for the long post!)

hebe

03-12-2011, 02:30 PM

hi Nats and welcome! You're not far from me. Congratulations on your new bike and getting started, there are quite a few very inspiring women on here who have lost a lot of weight through cycling, exercise is exercise. Looking forward to hearing more of your firsts!

redrhodie

03-12-2011, 02:52 PM

Good job, Nats! Don't feel bad about where you are, or how you got there, because your future is now looking a whole lot better, isn't it!? You've made the big leap, and it gets easier and easier (;) or faster and harder, depending on how you look at it) from here.

Roadtrip

03-12-2011, 05:46 PM

I did eight miles on my new road bike today... drove over to try out a new place to ride that was supposed to be "easy", which was just fine for me and my legs that hadn't been outside much due to weather, but ended up being filled with rolling hills and much harder then I was really prepared for.

It didn't help that we forgot water before we left (after just yesterday installing not one, but TWO bottle cages on my bike-- LOL) and by the time we were done, I was pretty thirsty, so hit a convenience store on the way back to rehydrate a little.

Once we got back and unloaded bikes I realized I had been riding my bike in the large chain-ring the whole day (my second DOH moment of the day, making it harder on myself in the process), but ended up still feeling strong, tho the new Brooks about killed my bum and needs some more break-in.

Shannon

Nats

03-13-2011, 12:56 AM

Thanks ladies, just having read through this thread has inspired me lots so am hoping this really is the beginning of a new me.

Hebe - yes Wilts isn't far. I'm in Yeovil and work in Shaftesbury (which is right on the Wiltshire borders) where are you?

Nats

03-13-2011, 05:08 AM

Just a quick update - I have just got back from almosy an hour (59mins) in the saddle and acheived 8.69 miles. Average speed 8.8mph - Max 26.9mph. My first decent ride! :)

Roadtrip

03-13-2011, 06:20 AM

Congrats Nats!!! Keep up the good work!

Shannon

Glory

03-13-2011, 12:18 PM

Just a quick update - I have just got back from almosy an hour (59mins) in the saddle and acheived 8.69 miles. Average speed 8.8mph - Max 26.9mph. My first decent ride! :)

Congrats!!! I just got my bike this weekend and I can't wait to have a great ride =) Right now we're getting umm...acclimated lol

hebe

03-13-2011, 02:35 PM

That's brilliant, Nats!

I'm near Chippenham.

hebe

03-13-2011, 02:38 PM

Not yet. We a couple of rain days, and those boots are vegetable dyed, and can't get wet. Today is my city's very popular St. Patrick's Day parade, so again, not riding to the store. Too crazy here this weekend. I'll do it during the week.

Excellent on getting the trailer! She's going to love it, and I bet it will be a lot easier to maneuver. The days of dropping the bike with her on it are over!

I look forward to hearing about the first red-boot ride!

I'm so looking forward to getting the trailer. It's definitely going to be much safer for me (and her) than the bike seat, that's for sure.

jessmarimba

03-13-2011, 06:10 PM

What kind of boots are those, redrhodie? They're purdy.

redrhodie

03-13-2011, 07:43 PM

The brand is El Naturalista. They run small, just in case you need to know. ;) Once you get the right size, they're really comfortable. I have their clogs, and they've taken over Keens as my shoe of choice.

jessmarimba

03-13-2011, 09:06 PM

I'm in love. I spent the last 20 minutes or so on their website, but the shoes are apparently sold at a store about a 15-20 minute ride from here. This could be dangerous!

K I'll stop hijacking the thread now :)

Nats

03-14-2011, 12:47 AM

Thanks again :p

Glory I hope you get accustomed quickly! ;)

Oh and BTW those red boots lovely!

jelee1311

03-14-2011, 05:38 PM

I do luv those red boots! I just want to say you are tough if you can manage those and clogs. That might inspire me to buy even more shoes and justify them in my already vast shoe collection:D Welcome Glory and Nats!

Glory

03-17-2011, 10:44 AM

Got out early this morning and drove 15 miles to an 'easy' bike trail. It was so worth the drive! Rode 7 miles, my longest solo ride. Of course I've only owned my bike for 6 days =) I almost felt comfortable today, its been a decade since I've been on 2 wheels and I had the LBS try something different with my right brake(I have a minor handicap) and braking was a little easier today. Although I'm thinking this stock saddle has got to go. I thought it would be ok since I wasn't riding very far but maybe not..

But I hafta say my sleep-deprived, menstrual cramping self is freakin' wiped out now. I hope that gets better with time!

hebe

03-17-2011, 02:26 PM

Roadtrip

03-17-2011, 07:08 PM

Looking at my mileage chart, I've logged 142 miles so far in 2011...

Not bad for not being able to get outdoors for two months!!

Shannon

Glory

03-17-2011, 07:58 PM

Go Glory! I'm glad you're enjoying your new bike so much. Which saddle did it come with?

I am collecting my Specialised tomorrow after its service, and also our new trailer :D I may need to make two trips as it's not a local bike shop. This evening I have put my saddle onto a new seatpost and put the old saddle (which the Mister loves) back onto the old suspension seatpost.

It came with a Bontrager H1, now that I have bike shorts its not quite as bad but still kind of ouchy.

How exciting! I hope its a beautiful weekend over there :)

Kerry1976

03-18-2011, 02:17 PM

After a less than fun first ride on Rosey the Road Bike last Sunday, I was pretty low. Had vaca this week and took advantage of good weather (a little windy, but doable) and light traffic to try again today and had a much better experience. Went on the highway twice, went in traffic, road on hills, crossed two sets of train tracks (one smooth/one rough - buzzed by a Jeep on the rough one), clipped in/out and stopped/started and didn't kill myself. Ended up with 12 miles. Good stuff!

redrhodie

03-21-2011, 07:00 AM

I finally rode in the red boots, and while it was fine, I decided I felt like a poseur for the fashion attempt ;). I think I'm just a bike shoe kind of girl.

jelee1311

03-22-2011, 08:13 PM

Redrhodie I bet you rocked them,besides you aren't in NYC and they aren't kitten heels so wear whatever you want.

CynMac

03-23-2011, 09:01 AM

New to TE & cycling after many years and a serious illness about 11 years ago. This past weekend I rode on an old railroad trial with friends. Was a bit nervous about keeping up but I did it! I rode about 12 miles and loved every minute of it! Was hoping to get back out again this coming weekend but don't think the weather will cooperate. Was so excited to finally be able to use the new bike that has been in my basement since the end of January! Woo hoo bring on spring!

PamNY

03-23-2011, 09:43 AM

I finally rode in the red boots, and while it was fine, I decided I felt like a poseur for the fashion attempt ;). I think I'm just a bike shoe kind of girl.

Good for you! I agree -as long as they aren't kitten heels, you are okay. I want some red boots.

jelee1311

04-01-2011, 08:42 PM

Today was finally over 60 degrees,the first time this year and I got a 35 mile ride in.I realized just how little I've been riding since I've been sick this month. I did a 1 mile hill and had to stop cuz I was coughing(pathetic) I did a few more big hills then came home.I'm still having some confidence issues being clipped in but I think its slowly getting better. I came home and celebrated the great day with pizza and italian margaritas:D

Nightowl

04-01-2011, 11:03 PM

Bike Writer

04-02-2011, 07:10 AM

Greetings. I loved reading all the posts of victory. Congratulations to everyone. My achievement this week is getting back to the saddle after 18 months.

I was getting ready to ride my first Century in October 2009 when I got H1N1. Hit me hard. Although I was lucky to recover, I was on steroids and inhalers for a long time. I then moved to Denver in February 2010 and the altitude hit my now less than perfect lungs like a truck. I tried to get back on the bike during the summer of 2010, but I was anxious and every time I tried a ride I felt like a huge failure and needed to stop and use my inhaler a lot.

But, I am back! So, I think I qualify as a newbie again. I have acclimated to the altitude and I have found a few routes with just a few hills to get my lungs back. I rode 30 miles last weekend and 10 miles every day after work this week. I didn't need the inhaler once, but I will still keep it in my pack just in case.

So, my message to anyone who gets hit with an injury or illness is to keep trying to get back in the saddle if you want to. Hopefully your ending will be as happy as mine.

Wow, what a story of accomplishment and perservance! Congratulations to you and happy riding.

Actually there are a lot of good stories of accomplishment and victories and all the TE'ers reveling in a new spring riding season.

I am feeling a wee bit like I got grounded and am watching all my friends outside playing and having fun...insert sad face here with lower lip jutted out and quivering...I wanna come out and play too...

Actually I am very happy for all of you who are getting spring miles under your belt and are able to be out enjoying the outdoors...I'll be there with you as soon as we shoo out these cold temps!

ZenBiker

04-02-2011, 09:33 PM

Hang in there, Bike Writer! I'm from Wisconsin originally and remember how spring weather can be in the lake states.

My newbie milestone: a 33 mile ride today, my longest to date. I did a few 20-25 mile rides late last season, but this is the first over 30. I'm prepping for a half century in early June so need to pile up some miles. Most of my biking friends are either way out of my league (riding 50+ miles with hills) or more in the 5-10 mile coffee shop trip category (fun, but won't get me thru the half century ride) so I'm a solo rider making it up as I go.

Catrin

04-04-2011, 02:27 AM

....I'm a solo rider making it up as I go.

I have been doing this from the beginning, it is fun :) It can get interesting, but lots of fun!

hebe

04-04-2011, 05:53 AM

I rode there and back to nursery twice this morning, with trailer and child. Just under 8 miles in total. I'm going for little and often this year.

I hope spring rolls in for soon for everyone. This is my first spring with a bike, I love it!

hebe

04-07-2011, 02:10 PM

24miles this week on the nursery run. I may have to drive tomorrow as there's quite a lot of grocery shopping to do and time may be a problem. I think this the most I've ever done on a bike in a week, and am pretty proud (again :D ). It's pretty cool being out in the spring sun with my girl in the trailer eating strawberries.

Roadtrip

04-08-2011, 06:21 PM

No miles this week :(

DH developed a cold and was so gracious as to share with me about five days later and now I'm full blown sick. I'm hoping some rest over the weekend goes a long way toward feeling better... This really, really sucks. Not only was I feeling the worse I'd felt in quite some time, but weather was GORGOUS tody and would have made for some excellent biking, so I'm pretty bummed.

I'll just be sitting here with my nose against the glass if you don't mind!

Shannon

hebe

04-09-2011, 01:40 AM

Get well soon, Shannon. I hope the weather stays good for you.

I did ride the nursery run again yesterday, the weather was far too nice to drive. I took my Garmin and found that I've been undercounting the miles - I've actually done 37miles with the trailer this week! My legs ache a bit, but not much. The next couple of weeks are nursery holiday so mileage will be a bit lighter.

linzq

04-09-2011, 05:02 AM

I've got something to brag about -- but bear in mind how new I am -- I haven't even ridden my new roadbike on the road yet!

Yesterday, I went for a Specialized BG Fit (that my LBS comp'd me!). It was really interesting to get the bike fit properly to me.

And the best part?

I took the front wheel off, loaded it into my car, and put it back together ALL BY MYSELF!!! :D

(Riding bragging soon, but I couldn't help but share. I'm so proud!)

Catrin

04-09-2011, 07:11 PM

Wooot! Congratulations! This is really a big step, I remember what it felt like the first time I did this :)

jelee1311

04-09-2011, 10:17 PM

Welcome linzq! Just wait until your get on the road and have more firsts. I haven't had a lot of time to ride the last few days but last week I logged 120 miles!!!that's the most I have ridden since I injured myself last year. Knock on wood my achilles feels goodso I feel very optimistic about healing. A local bike club started up their beginning ladies rides and I did that on Tuesday. It was fun and I met some new women to ride with. Hopefully the weather will get better soon,we had thunder, lightning and 3 inches of hail on Wednesday

hebe

04-10-2011, 12:21 AM

And the best part?

I took the front wheel off, loaded it into my car, and put it back together ALL BY MYSELF!!! :D

(Riding bragging soon, but I couldn't help but share. I'm so proud!)

I know how good that feels!

Welcome, and enjoy your riding.

Wow Jelee. that's brilliant!

linzq

04-11-2011, 06:09 AM

Thanks, all, it feels great!

I'm away from my bike this week, but will be renting a beater bike in Hilton Head for some wide-bike-path riding and even on-the-beach riding! Looking forward to it!

And I definitely can't wait to share *real* riding on my new roadbike stories!

Roadtrip

04-20-2011, 07:09 PM

This evening we got home from work we decided to go to the Community Council meeting. We used to attend every month, but they relocated the meeting place, plus the meeting time was changed to an earlier time difficult to make after work.

Meeting tonight started at 7PM, so we got home from work, pumped up the tires and took the bikes over to the rec center. It's only a mile each way, but we're not all that used to riding the roads with cars, so it was a good challenge.

Figured it was be going to be dark by the time we headed home, so we finally got to break out the headlights and super flashy taillight. We rode the mile back home with lights on and flashing like a Christmas tree!! The first time I've ridden at night and it was pretty cool!

Shannon

hebe

04-21-2011, 07:09 AM

Cool, Shannon! Which bike did you ride? It's wonderful how there is always something new to do.

linzq, are you on your roadbike now?

I had a small but hugely satisfying "first" this afternoon. DH needed a prescription picking up in town, and I nipped into town onto my Marin to collect it, wearing a DRESS :D A proper normal, knee-length polka dot teadress. Having the wind in my hair is one thing, but having a dress flutter around my legs in a summer breeze is just the bees knees (so to speak). I got given plenty of space on the busy stretch of road too.

Roadtrip

04-21-2011, 09:16 AM

Cool, Shannon! Which bike did you ride? It's wonderful how there is always something new to do.

Took Louisville, the Trek FX Hybrid as it already had lights attached... Tho I did get to use the new Stella light I bought from Catrin and I love it!! I ended up having the Planet Bike lamp on strobe and the Stella on steady. Ample light even on the dark road without street lamps overhead!

I nipped into town onto my Marin to collect it, wearing a DRESS :D A proper normal, knee-length polka dot teadress. Having the wind in my hair is one thing, but having a dress flutter around my legs in a summer breeze is just the bees knees (so to speak).

I'm picturing the smile on your face! Brilliant!!

Shannon

bikefam2

04-21-2011, 11:48 AM

Just started to read this thread, glad to see all of the accomplishments from everyone! It gives me a lot of hope!! :D I'm still trying to feel comfortable stopping without feeling like I'm going to wobble into traffic. :( Can't wait to report my first stop without feeling so nervous.

sazza

04-21-2011, 12:45 PM

I managed to not use what I have heard people descrive as granny gear:p ya know the easiest front cog, had a really good ride tonight. managed hills a lot better too and faster

Velocivixen

04-21-2011, 01:46 PM

I purchased, and here's the exciting part, installed my new Cateye Strada wireless bike computer. Fairly simple, but it worked! Went for a ride to see if it's accurately recording distance and it is.

linzq

04-22-2011, 06:27 AM

linzq, are you on your roadbike now?

I had a small but hugely satisfying "first" this afternoon. DH needed a prescription picking up in town, and I nipped into town onto my Marin to collect it, wearing a DRESS :D A proper normal, knee-length polka dot teadress. Having the wind in my hair is one thing, but having a dress flutter around my legs in a summer breeze is just the bees knees (so to speak). I got given plenty of space on the busy stretch of road too.

Almost... I was out of town for another week, and am now home with a cold... AND it's cold outside. So I'm being a wimp (I think it's smart) and waiting for it to warm up a bit here so I don't have to invest in cold weather gear just yet... 4 degrees Celsius (here in Toronto) doesn't beckon me outside when I'm sick. But I'm super excited, and may get my BF to help me get on the trainer this weekend to get used to my new position.

YAY for riding in a real dress!! That must have been SO fun - I can't wait to report on that kind of thing this summer!

Come on WARM weather, I am waiting for you!

linzq

04-22-2011, 06:28 AM

I purchased, and here's the exciting part, installed my new Cateye Strada wireless bike computer. Fairly simple, but it worked! Went for a ride to see if it's accurately recording distance and it is.

CONGRATS! I bought mine (also a Cateye Strada), and my BF took over installation...

That's awesome.

Roadtrip

04-22-2011, 06:50 AM

I took my new 29er out tonight to tackle some hills and found myself tackeled instead! OUCH! Only four miles. Wow, how could four miles hurt so much? One doozie of a hill... 14% grade and 100 feet of climb in aprox a tenth of a mile... About six other smaller hills... Nicely packaged in four little miles :eek:

I welcomed death at the top, but I... Made... It.

Defiantly didn't have the legs tonight...

Guess I'm still recovering from my cold... Feeling better... So I thought!

jelee1311

04-25-2011, 11:21 PM

We finally had a sunny day on Friday, so I got out and did 25miles. I have been adding more hills to my rides but I'm stiil sucking wind and having to stop. I can't seem to get my fitness back,more hills for me. I got a new Terry saddle my first woman specific. I'm not sure if I like it yet. On Saturday we had sun again so the family went for a ride and it was perfect. Then on Sunday surprise its raining again, its really getting to me. I'm riding about 125-150miles a week and most of it in 45degree weather in pouring rain and its no fun anymore. Summer please hurry!!!!!!!!!!

Biking Bella

04-26-2011, 08:16 AM

I purchased my hybrid bike late in the season last year, and after riding it off and on over the winter months on the trainer, I've finally been able to get out to the GAP (Great Allegheny Passage) when the sun decides to shine. I'm going to mark off a "30 Before 30" list item at the end of this summer - Bike from Pittsburgh to Cumberland on the GAP over a weekend. I'll be doing this with other cycling friends and a non-cycling friend who will act as a "mule" as we camp along our journey.

Therefore, I need to train...

Thus far I've been able to turn out about 20 miles per ride without an issue. I've had to teach myself how to fit myself for my bike, and I'm still messing with the handle bars. But all in all - that's my brag...! :)

Glory

05-01-2011, 08:40 AM

The difference is amazing! Now that I'm on the bike instead of in it :P I feel like I have such better control now and my speed picked up a bit. Yayyy! I've only taken the bike out a handful of times but today was the first day I wasn't ready to go home =)

hebe

05-01-2011, 11:03 AM

Hurrah for new achievements!

I did my first ride with panniers yesterday, into town for a couple of 4lb bags of cat-food and a few other bits. Stuff that would be quite uncomfortable to carry by hand is no problem at all in the panniers. My riding this year is much more normal life stuff, shopping and nursery etc, it's nice to save the money on fuel. I wanted to go for an off-road ride today but it's been very windy and a bit grey. Which wouldn't normally bother me too much but we've been so spoiled with the sunshine recently.