Cycle Virgin

[Redrover]

I'm such a newbie that I don't even have a bike yet. I casually mentioned to my younger sister that I was considering getting a bike to have some fitness variety and she has been asking me every day if I have gotten my bike yet. I am getting bored just going to the gym for the last 5 1/2 years and thought a bike would provide the variety. There are several issues to confront: I am really old (60), I haven't been on a bike in more than 30 years, I am really intimidated by riders with the cool gear who whizz past me on Saturday mornings when I leave my subdivision and I don't know a d*mn thing about how to choose a good ride. Unfortunately I live in Texas and my sister is in Oregon so she can't really hold my hand through this process. I just found this forum and thought I would throw myself at your feet and ask for some guidance. I don't want to invest my life savings in a bike (I don't have that many more working years in me to replace my retirement savings) so I want something in the $400 - 500 range. Then I need to know what, besides a helmet, is absolutely necessary for someone who will not likely be doing any marathon-like rides. Can you help???:confused: :confused: :confused:

[JamamaSpoke]

Welcome! I am not 60 but I am 43 and just started riding this year seriously. My husband and I both bought hybrid bikes his is a Giant and mine is a Trek. We love them. I am also intimidated by the 'big guys' with the gear that ride past us and mumble hello as I am working to the best of my abiility and they to their warm up :rolleyes: but I don't let it get to me as i realize they had to start somewhere as well.

The thing with cycling is that I have found it to be one of the most freeing, liberating, invigorating workouts I have done in a long time. And I enjoy it. I am able to do this with my husband and friends and it shows progress. I can feel the progress because I can ride farther and i see the progress because my dough boy belly is getting smaller.

IMHO no matter what your age is GO FOR IT! and enjoy the results psychologically and physically!!!! Just do your best and know you did the best for YOU. Oh and HAVE UN!

[Redrover]

Thanks Jamma, I really needed someone to tell me that my trepidation was not unique. I wish I could convince my husband to do this with me but he basically thinks I'm nuts for wanting to get out in the Houston heat and sweat. I think it might be a tad premature to go looking for a cycle club but maybe when I screw up a little courage, get some hours in close to home I might seek out the company of like-minded novices. At any rate, thanks again.

[Redrover]

Sorry, Jamama (I can't read either...)

[Artisan]

Redrover, Check your private messages.

[Redrover]

Artisan,

I can see the PM but can't figure out how to post the reply. I am also not getting a full length window, half the left side options are below the horizon. How do I post a reply?

[KnottedYet]

60 isn't "really old"!!!!!

I have a $400 bike that I truly love. She is sturdy and fast and steady. Even-tempered and willing. And pretty. She is my commutermobile and she is in my avatar. Kona Dew, with a Brooks saddle. I rode her in a triathlon, so not only is she a do-it-all bike, she can also go fast!

http://www.konaworld.com/shopping_cart/FrontEnd/Products/product_detail.aspx?productid=346&parentid=253

Another bike line you might consider for re-learning to ride is Electra. There are a couple Electra riders here on TE. Someone just did a century on her Electra Townie. Those can fit your price range, too.

[Artisan]

You could either click on my user name here or in your private message. You should get a drop down list and then choose private message from the list. Also on the bottom right corner of the message box there should be a reply button.

Hope this helps.

[Redrover]

Knotted, I looked at the Kona Dew and it looks promising. What other ones did you consider? My sister is suggesting a Trek Navigator and someone else mentioned a Specialized model somethingorother. What sold you on the Dew? (I guess you are in WA state?)

[Redrover]

How important is the ability to put your feet on the ground when stopped?

[Bruno28]

I'm 50 and just started cycling again after a long time. I bought a hybrid bike - a Trek 7.2 fx womens specific design. I find it really comfortable and easy to ride.

I was a bit intimidated going to my local bike shop. In the end they were very nice but not all that forthcoming with advice. Luckily you can go in armed with info about fit etc from the forums here.

'How important is the ability to put your feet on the ground when stopped?'......

I can put my tip toes on the ground when stopped which I think is right....and it feels ok for me.

Good luck!

[Redrover]

I keep reading about pedals and clipping and cages etc. What about this subject do I need to know? When I am at the gym and on the recumbent bike I don't even like to have the straps on the pedals then so how does this translate to a real bike?

[KnottedYet]

I looked at a ton of bikes. Can't remember them all. Honestly, the only ones I actually RODE were the Konas. It was love at first pedal! The geometry just suited me so well, I lost interest in continuing to look.

I like the fact that it is a sturdy, simple bike. The components are basic and trustworthy. There is no suspension to mess with. It's meant to be ridden hard and stand up to rougher conditions than a speedy road bike. (it's based on a cyclocross bike, the Kona Jake and Jake the Snake) That means its a bit heavier and slower than a speedy road bike. There is always a trade off!

The frame is "bombproof" according to the guys at my LBS. I can change components and upgrade all I want, the frame will still be worthy. It's an aluminum frame with a steel fork. A nice combination for an all-weather commuter. I have a Brooks B67 saddle on it, and the springs on the saddle dampen out the road buzz. It handles well even with two loaded panniers on the back rack.

The gearing gives a great range. The mega-granny gear is a 26t front with a 34t rear (which means one revolution of the pedals isn't even one full revolution of the rear wheel). This is more than adequate even for the Evil Hill of Doom on my commute.

I like upright bars for commuting. (on longer rides they become tiring) Bikes I use for longer rides (30+ miles) have always had drop bars. Except for my recumbent, but that's a unique case!

As far as touching the ground: I broke myself of that habit years and years ago. I don't even try to touch the ground. Just got on my Kona, and my toes can touch just fine while I'm in the saddle, but that's not the way I ride. If I'm planning to touch the ground my butt comes off the seat first and I lower myself to the ground by standing on one pedal.

I will admit I had some political reasons for choosing the Kona brand: they are based here in WA, just a couple hours away. They are fairly small compared to the "big bike companies." They do a lot of work with kids. They provided the bikes for BikeAfrica (AIDS workers). They do a lot of bike advocacy. Actually, I already loved the bike, but the other stuff made me feel even better about buying it!

[KnottedYet]

I keep reading about pedals and clipping and cages etc. What about this subject do I need to know? When I am at the gym and on the recumbent bike I don't even like to have the straps on the pedals then so how does this translate to a real bike?

Just about any bike you buy in your price range will come with traditional flat pedals. It might have cages and straps (also called "clips" but that gets confusing).

If you already know you DON'T like straps on your feet, by all means ask the shop to take off the cages and straps before you leave the store! But ask to keep them (you might want to play with them later). Put all the bits and pieces in a big ziplock bag.

I switched over to cleated pedals (also called "clipless") and shoes a few months ago. Speedplay Frogs. I love them! But I really like having my feet attached to the bike.

Everyone has different preferences. Start with what you're comfortable with. You can always play with other options later on whatever bike you choose.

[Duck on Wheels]

I too tried a lot of bikes before choosing my latest. It was like doing the Goldilocks thing: Too tall, too shaky, too slow, ... and finally, just right. Geometry is important -- sitting at a comfortable angle, with your arms relaxed when on the handlebars, your legs at the most effective angles throughout the pedal stroke. A good bike shop will hold the bike steady and do at least a rough fit before sending you out for a test ride. Then on the test rides you'll want to compare how different bikes feel. I found the Jamis bikes to be the smoothest rides ever, but they had me sitting so high off the ground that I couldn't even get a toe down before dismounting, and at 57 I don't feel all that confident about tipping over and hoping my foot will be there as the ground approaches. I tried a Specialized, but found the frame so stiff that every pebble in the pavement gave me a jolt. That too made me a bit nervous when riding. I had a $200 Giant Sedona that was heavy and slow, but had some "senior" gears that I figured would get me up hills the rest of my life no matter how out of shape I get, but it was waaaay too slow if I wanted to go any distance now while I'm still in shape for some mileage. Finally I tried a Trek 7.6, which has a sort of "laid back" geometry that also provides some built-into-the-frame shock absorbtion. I also have an older Trek 7000 that I rode today -- a nice fit and a nice range of gears, a good smooth ride with just enough speed to keep me cool on a warm day, give a nice sense of freedom, and cut my commute time in half as compared to walking.

As for toe clips, clipless pedals, flat pedals ... if you can't stand having your feet in toe clips when on the stationary bike, then stick with flat pedals for now. Go with what's comfortable for you. I did make the switch to clipless last year. So far, so good ... that is to say, no falls due to forgetting to unclip. Today I rode my old bike with flat pedals and really missed being clipped on (strangely, clipless pedals actually clip onto your shoes, whereas toe clip pedals do not). 6 years ago when I bought this bike I did not even dare to _think_ about being clipped on, but now it feels much better that way. You'll know if and when you're ready to try it.

Other things you will need -- mostly just the helmet. Lights if you plan on riding after dark. If you'll be riding in traffic, I'd recommend a bright colored jacket or vest. If you're going to go on _long_ rides, I'd recommend a good pair of bike shorts. Also for longer rides or if you're nervous about falling, I'd recommend a pair of biking gloves. You might also want a small tool kit and pump for emergency repairs, again that'd be for longer rides. The bike shop will usually give you a water bottle and bottle cage for free. And you'll want some way to carry the few items you'll want along "just in case" (cell phone, a snack, some money, a jacket in case it turns cold or a place to tuck it away if it turns warm, that mini tool-kit and pump if you're riding some distance from home). For me that's my usual backpack, the one I carry to work anyway. You might prefer a small bag that fastens under the bike seat.

[Kalidurga]

How important is the ability to put your feet on the ground when stopped?

How important this is, is really up to the individual rider. If you're not sure you'd be comfortable only putting your toes to the ground on a regular bike, then Knotted's suggestion of a townie might be a great option for you to consider. I'm seeing more and more of these bikes advertised and I've seen a couple in downtown DC. They look pretty cool and are probably a lot of fun: Review: Electra Bicycle Company Townie 21 (http://www.roadbikereview.com/cat/latest-bikes/hybrid-bike/electra-bicycle-company/PRD_291016_5672crx.aspx) or Electra Townie (http://www.electrabike.com/04/bikes/townie/townie_home.html). Plus, if you're used to riding a recumbent at the gym, a townie would probably have a similar feel but at an upright angle.

[ace]

Hi there!

My advice is to keep it simple. I'm 45, about 70 lbs overweight, and have had my bike for 7 years, but just started riding seriously this year (I used to commute on it and then didn't use it at all). I have a Trek 7300 Hybrid, and it has been completely adequate for my needs. I ride with the Light group of my local club (go Oakland Yellowjackets!), and they have taught me all the basics to keep me safe and make riding more fun- proper stopping/starting technique, hills (up and down), etc. This summer I've gone from sweating out a flat 20 mile ride, to 40 miles with 3000 ft. of elevation. For me riding with a group is really helpful- I've met other beginners and gotten great coaching, so don't be afraid to ride with a club. You don't have to be good before you go. Most have beginners' groups, and even the great cyclists with all their flashy gear are very nice and supportive of me.

So about gear- I'd say keep it really simple. I've been buying things as I need them. Start with a bike, helmet, and padded bike shorts. Get platform pedals (not clips or clipless), and just get used to your bike. Go to a store where they can fit you properly. You should be able to stand flat-footed on the ground, straddling the cross-bars of your bike. Also note that when you stop, you should always get off your seat.

Bike, helmet and shorts is what I had at the beginning of the summer. Since then I've added in the following order:

1. Camelbak (I was having serious dehydration problems, and the solution was to buy a 100 oz. Camelbak- makes me drink much more)
2. Electrolyte replacement (see number one)
3. A bike shirt. I wanted to look cool like the other kids in the club!
4. Clipless pedals and bike shoes- it got to the point where I realized that not having clipless pedals was making my cycling really inefficient, and I was ready to get them.

Next purchase: Road Bike, but probably not for a couple of months.

Honestly, I'd say just get the basics, that will cover you for short rides, and once you get into it, you can start buying additional stuff you need.

Have a fantastic time!

-Amy

[Bikingmomof3]

Welcome. :) I do not think 60 is old at all. I bought my first bike in the middle of June-first time ever on a bike at the age of 37. It was a "mode" bike, by Giant called Giant Suede W. It was more bike than I wanted. Then 3 weeks later I wanted more power-who could have guessed? Not me. 37 years being terrified of bikes...So I had this nice bike, and wanted a new one. I ended up with a Trek 1000 and I love it. I spent $650 on it. Trek makes some lovely comfort and hybreds for less. Do I have a point? Think about what you may want to do. It hurt financially to buy another bike just 3 weeks later. Fortunately the bike store where I bought my Trek was willing to give me store credit for my Giant (bought at another LBS).

Best advice, think about your needs/future goals, and go try out as many bikes as you have time for. When a bike fits, you will know it. It will just feel as though it belongs under you.

Above all, have fun!

[Redrover]

I have just returned from my LBS and I think I have found what I like. They were in the midst of a huge Labor Day sale and were mobbed but I got lucky and was helped by a wonderfully helpful woman, Cynthia. She acted like I was the only customer in the store and we tried me on several comfort bikes. The one I think I like is the Trek Navigator. The parking lot was so crowded so I am going back tomorrow to test ride it. In the meantime I bought a helmet, gloves and an insulated water bottle. After sitting on several of the bikes I think this bike is what I want. Y'all have been so nice and helpful and I really appreciate all your kind words and support. I'll post again after I have the bike and have actually ridden it.

[Duck on Wheels]

Yesterday I remembered one other item you'll definitely need: A lock. Gotta get off the bike sometimes, ya'know, and you might want to ride it to a park or a shop or to work. Good luck with your new bike! Have fun! And no, 60 is NOT old. Two weeks ago I was visiting my Dad's cousin. 82. Just got her bike back that she'd loaned to her granddaughters and was about to get back in the saddle again. :)

[pooks]

60 is not old!

As the "must haves" rack up for you (bike, helmet, gloves, lock) I would add padded cycling shorts. You'll know pretty soon if you need to buy them immediately! I can't imagine riding without the padding.

Get ready to feel younger than you've felt in a long time!

[Bluetree]

I agree... 60 is definitely not old, esp. for someone who is as energetic as you.
I was driving back from the gym this morning and saw a group of four riders, slowly making their way up an mild incline. As I came up to them I saw the three men and one woman couldn't have been younger than 70, probably closer to 80... in matching yellow t-shirts and on road bikes, too!
I honked and gave them a thumbs up when I passed.
Cycling keeps everyone young!

[Redrover]

OK ladies, I have done the deed. I just got home and unloaded my new bike, a 16" Trek Navigator. It's a "girly" bike in that in has a step through but I really need it right now. Not having been on a bike in more than 30 years it was more than a little daunting. My problems are starting and stopping but I'm getting the hang of the actual riding. How did all of you learn how to shift gears? Also, how do you develp confidence in the starting and stopping? The pedals seem so tall/thick and I don't always feel my feet are securely on the pedals. When you stop, do you leave the seat before stretching to the ground?

On a positive note though, I have learned how to take off my front tire so I can put the bike in my car to transport.

[pooks]

Woohoo! You rock!

I had a couple of crashes in the first few weeks (well, one was just a tump-over) because I wasn't experienced enough stopping. The riding was easy! Turning corners, etc., piece of cake. Stopping wasn't even hard, since I slowed a lot until I could stop easily.

So I didn't recognize that I wasn't strong enough at "stopping" until I had a couple of situations where I had to react quickly. Once, I was barely rolling forward, but the realization that I really needed to stop threw me -- and I tried to use my coaster brakes! (Of course, there ARE no coaster brakes!)

The next time I was going faster when I realized I wasn't going to make the turn without hitting a curb, and panicked and didn't stop well.

So my advice is this -- find a school parking lot or some other smooth, flat, traffic-free area and simply practice stopping and starting. Do some figure 8s in both directions and circles in both directions, too. Just take it easy and experiment. First comes learning how to do it. Next, comes making it instinctive. I have to admit it's not purely instinctive for me yet, and I've ridden a couple of hundred miles. But it WILL be!

[pooks]

Also, check out this thread:

http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=8262

[Kano]

OK ladies, I have done the deed. I just got home and unloaded my new bike, a 16" Trek Navigator. It's a "girly" bike in that in has a step through but I really need it right now. Not having been on a bike in more than 30 years it was more than a little daunting. My problems are starting and stopping but I'm getting the hang of the actual riding. How did all of you learn how to shift gears? Also, how do you develp confidence in the starting and stopping? The pedals seem so tall/thick and I don't always feel my feet are securely on the pedals. When you stop, do you leave the seat before stretching to the ground?

On a positive note though, I have learned how to take off my front tire so I can put the bike in my car to transport.+

Congratulations! I have the step through thing too -- for some reason I don't step through, but I've got it! (I think there's not room for my big old feet!)

Shifting -- sometimes I still have problems, but practice keeping the pedaling easy and fairly consistent, and you'll get lots of shifting in. Remember that if you're not pedaling, the gear doesn't change when you shift -- sometimes I forget that, and wonder about myself....

Starting -- this is easier if the gearing is light, so I've learned to downshift when I'm likely to be stopping (and this coasting to a stop thing is where I forget that you have to be pedaling to shift to begin with!) I'm standing on the ground, with my right foot (some folk do it with left) on the pedal, and left on the ground. I spin the pedals so that the right foot is high, and then as I push off with my left, I push down on the right and boost myself up onto the seat as I'm putting my left on its pedal. Once in a while, I don't seem to get enough speed, and have to try again. Not as often anymore.

Helpful tip when starting -- don't scrape your butt up the seat, or it may grab your shorts, and that's NOT a handy thing! That sounds hard to avoid, but it's really not!

Stopping -- yup, I leave the seat before stretching to the ground, cuz I can't reach the ground from the seat, and I like staying upright! Right foot stays on pedal, which is down, left foot drops from pedal toward ground as I dismount. (I do those clipless pedals these days, so it's click out, foot off pedal, and butt off as foot drops, I guess...)

Karen in Boise

[Cindyloo]

Redrover, congrats on the new bike! Sounds like you are doing great so far with the gear you've purchased. I ditto what some of the ladies have said about the bike shorts. They make the riding experience so much more comfortable and if you don't feel like bearing it all in spandex right now you could wear some thin shorts over them.

As far as starting off goes, I find it helpful to have my feet in the right position. With one foot on the ground I put the other one on the pedal at about the 2 o'clock position (right foot) ready to produce a downstroke. This allows for propulsion from the standstill and then you can get the other foot on the other pedal.

For stopping I usually come to almost a complete stop, lean the bike slightly to usually my left side and put my foot down. I think people probably become used to using the same foot to stop and start on while riding. You just have to work out what you are comfortable with.

Also, I'm not sure what seat the Navigator comes with but don't hesitate to get another seat if the stock one is hard on the tushie or girlie parts! Good luck and enjoy that new bike!