new bike ,and very unhappy

[KSH]

WOW! Suzie... I am so sorry to hear about your struggles and your non-love of your bike.

It's going to take some practice to get use to it. Especially since you are going from one type of bike to another.

When I first got my road bike... I was scared. It was fast... and I was clipped in... and I didn't have a CLUE about how/when/why to shift. I seriously found out how to make it to my granny gear a year after I bought the bike. So sad, I know.


Now... this story totally reminds me of myself!

About 20 years ago ,I bought a VW that I couldn't drive off the lot because I couldn't drive a stick. My friend drove it for me...I used to be scared to death to get in it especially if I had to stop on a hill. Now alls I drive is a stick. I know it will come to me ,and Ill look back on this thread ,and smile ,but now I just want to be comfortable.

When I got my first car, it was a stick shift. I seriously had issues driving it for about 6 months. I ran a lot of red lights and stop signs for fear of having to get out of first again! But as you know, if you are determined enough, you can teach yourself something new and scary!

But, with practice... and time... oh and being completely headstrong and nutty (riding group rides that were too fast for me when I only had around 50 miles on my bike)... did I get use to the bike and learn how to love and use it.

Keep at it. Practice it will get better.

[RoadRaven]

Hey there Suzie
I have just replied to your PM
Hope there is something of use there, but you have had great advice from the gals already - I don't know that my PM will help much.

Kia kaha... kia manawanui

(translation - be strong, have faith and believe in yourself)

~Rave~

Oh... and take another look at my siggy...