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???

[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 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_ca...6&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.