Newbie....need real advice

[MelissaC]

I recently started riding a road bike. I haven't been on a bike since I was 12. My first time out I rode 15 miles with some friends that are already avid bike riders. I was slow (still am) and they are patient. Here is my problem. I have spent a lot of time on a eliptical machine and my legs always burn. That has never changed. However, it is nothing compared to the burn on the bike. The first time out.. I powered through. The following week, I thought I was going to cry but I made it... and the last time....well I was mad at my boyfriend so I powered through again but it hurt so bad. I feel like everyone around me thinks I am kidding or that it really can't be that bad but it is. I am not a cryer or a whiner but this hurts. Honestly, I skipped out this last week and now Tuesday I am expected to be there. I have been out and practiced the gears and have been working with uncliping myself before I run into traffic. LOL. I really want to do this well but it hurts my legs so bad. I am overweight and I am not in the best shape but I am working on it. Any advice will be welcomed!!