Hi Suzie,

We probably go about the same pace, so we can ride together if you like. This is my first group ride since I was age 20, so it is new to me too. The only advantage I have is that I have ridden/driven those roads a lot, and the roads near Champoeg Park I rode a lot this summer.

I will send you a private message with my email address and phone number so we can figure out how to meet. I live rurally between Sherwood and Newberg, and Champoeg Park is only 11 miles from my house. I ride from the park almost every day because 1)I love to ride and 2)I really am trying to burn off the excess body fat. I can tell you that since I started biking in late May, I have gained a lot of muscle density, so I would think that will happen to you also. Your skinny legs will eventually turn into slabs of muscle.

If you like, we can meet at Champoeg Park on a sunny day and do a 20-mile ride together, in advance of this ride.

I will ask the other TE member I rode with last night if she wants to join us. However she rides a road bike, and though she thinks she rides slow, she is faster than me, so she will leave the two of us in the dust.

I think the starting time is 7 to 8 a.m. When I find out more, I will let you know. A bike shop is on hand to fix flats and broken chains during the ride. Just remember to inflate your tires before the ride, and to oil/lube the chain and stuff.

Darcy