Getting Started

[HappyAnika]

Hi there! The neck/shoulder pain could be fit related . . . or . . .I noticed I had some when I first started riding, then also after I had been off the bike for a couple of weeks then started up again. I naturally carry a lot of tension in my neck and shoulders, I find I hunch up a lot in all sorts of situations. I do a step aerobics class at the gym, and our instructor is always saying "Keep your shoulder blades in your back pockets". If I say this to myself while riding, I'll remember to relax through the shoulders and I don't get sore. Sit bone soreness is natural for the first couple of weeks. If it persists after that, I'd say you have a shorts, and/or saddle problem. Finally, if you're going to go road bike shopping, I'd recommend Trek bikes. I have a 1500 WSD road, lots of other people here have Pilots which offer a more upright position (which you might consider if the neck/shoulder thing persists). I like Trek because they own Bontrager, which enables them to outfit their bikes with better components for less money than other brands. That said, 3 of my girlfriends all have Specialized bikes, which I thought I would love, but I loved the Trek more. Bottom line is bikes are a very personal thing, ride lots of them (and go back to ride them a 2nd, 3rd, 4th. . . times) to see what feels good to you. You'll know it when you find the right one.

[Aubrey]

Thanks for your insights. I love Team Estrogen...especially since I've noticed while riding, how few women I see out there.

Thanks again.