Newbie here checking in!

[KimV]

Hello Everyone!

I am a newbie for sure. For Mother's Day this year I bought myself a hybrid bike, Ariel Sport. Before 2 weeks ago I hadn't been on a bike in 12 years! Anyway I decided I needed a change. There is a local trail I found in my town that goes for 33 miles. This past Sunday I managed to ride 12 miles on it. It is mostly small crushed stone and some paved and very scenic.

I am also involved in a local Bike Camp that runs for 4 weeks that teaches you some basics. Last night I did my first road ride (16 miles) and I must say the hills kicked my butt for sure!

I need to consider something different than just the stock flat pedals. I had thought about going with a toe clip pedal to start. Clipless pedals scare me to tell the truth.

Anyway so far I think I am doing good. I will post pics of my bike soon once I figure out how

[ny biker]

Happy mother's day!! Welcome to TE.

[Donna1960]

The toe clips would be a great 1st choice with minimal investment. I used those for 2 years before going clipless!

[KimV]

Thanks, I read about the toe clips being a good 1st choice. I am glad they work for you. I am not ready to go clipless just yet

[marni]

welcome to the slippery slope of being addicted to biking. Its a steep learning curve but you will enjoy every minute.

[Crankin]

Just my opinion, but toe clips seemed a lot more scary to me than just going clip less. Having to reach down and tighten a strap ?
If you don't want to try clip less, I'd recommend Power Straps. They simulate the motion of clip less, and are velcro straps that go across flat pedals. I've known several people that were pretty happy with them and were able to smoothly make the transition to clip less from them.

http://bicycling.about.com/od/equipm...ower_grips.htm