I'm a newbie with injuries

[pooks]

Welcome, ColleenT and SunnyHazel!

Whether or not your bike is put together well, it still probably would benefit from having someone who knows what they're doing watch you ride and make adjustments to the handlebars, seat, etc. They generally don't mind doing that at all -- even on a bike they didn't sell.

They know that all the extras are like crack and you'll see all sorts of things in their store you'll want (if not today, someday) and if they treat you nicely, you'll be back to spend money with them, too! Plus, they know that if the bike isn't adjusted properly and it causes you knee problems, "seat" pains, etc. you're much more likely to stop riding and then you'll never spend money with them. It's to their benefit to help you, so don't feel odd about asking.

[eclectic]

Welcome, ColleenT and SunnyHazel!

They know that all the extras are like crack and you'll see all sorts of things in their store you'll want (if not today, someday).

Well I guess I changed the context a little the better chamois is what I yearn for, my butt is still a little chaffed from the last tour, I discovered 2 of my shorts don't work well for long distance day after day.

I am glad i can openly speak about my butt here, one of my good friends was going TMI, TMI

[ColleenT]

thanks E. i'm going outside to blow the rainclouds in your direction. i have a lot of hot air, so it might work..

[Kano]

clothing --

I was able to find a couple of shirts that have been working pretty well for me at Target, in the ladies "athletic wear" department. Paid under $15 for each of them. They don't have the pockets and zippers found in jerseys, but I'm finding that this sport rivals skiing when you're getting started: you need all kinds of stuff!

Shorts I found at REI, and they were on sale for about $20. Not the best, and when I ride over 30 miles, they're definitely not the best, but they're a great start too! Since I'm riding a bit farther now on a fairly regular basis, I'm starting to look for a new pair of shorts with a bit nicer padding.

Karen in Boise

[ColleenT]

i love Target..

Today at a hardware store of all places, i found a Bright yellow/green vest with Orange reflective tape and it is all Vented or Holey or whatever you call it. it is made of Holes. it fits over anything, and is not going to make me sweat. So at least the cars won't hit me b/c they don't see me. And my Trainer came by way of Fedex just minutes ago. i need hubby to help me set it up. Well, that's not true, i'm just being lazy right now. i did go out for a few minutes thru the drizzle, and i think i did ok. but i did get myself a bit fatigued, so before i got the nausea feeling, i came home. i took my Rack out of the box, and i am SO ready for the rain to end..

[RedRansV2]

Welcome to cycling, Colleen!

Here's a really useful website for your handy hubby and you to help you maintain and repair your bike. http://www.parktool.com/repair/

I'm not at all mechanically inclined and I've found it easy to use.

Has it stopped raining yet?

[ColleenT]

thanks! the rain stopped today, and tomorrow but Earnesto is coming thru on Friday, Sat, Sun. Drat.