how many seasons and/or miles til experienced?

[GLC1968]

I have been pondering this exact same topic for a couple of weeks now myself...ever since reading that same article in Bicycling! I'm finishing my second 'season' of cycling (though I plan to ride year round this year) and while I can ride centuries and climb mountains, I still find myself very much wanting to improve my handling skills. (my decents are practically slower than my climbs! )

Veronica - I can say 'yes' to all but maybe two of your 'criteria' but I know I still have a TON to learn. Actually, my guess is that the Jeremy guy in the article would be able to say 'yes' as well...and he still had issues. I think it was really interesting because while he was fit and fast...and he got there in record time (like 1 season?) but it didn't give him time to develop the proper handling skills. His riding buddies said that he was a menace because he was good enough to get into trouble, but not good enough to get out in time! (this is my dad's theory on 4x4's...they just get you stuck further away from help! )

Velogirl - very interesting points! Your thoughts on balance interest me greatly. I grew up ice skating...hours a day. I also happen to be blessed with general coordination and athleticism. BUT, when I first started riding, balance was DEFINITELY a big problem for me. Now that I have a bike that fits me better (my first one was too big), my balance has improved, but it's still a weak spot for me (which I never would have guessed). There is no way that I could pick up a water bottle. I have a hard time getting it out of my cage while holding my line...never mind off the ground!! I'd like to try racing, but I know that I'd be a danger to myself and the other riders without some serious bike handling skill improvement. I really want to take a clinic. How would one go about finding something like you described here in my area?

[Geonz]

I read about Jeremy and reflected that he's what happens when people don't approach cycling as something to *learn.* These are the guys (tho' not necessarily of the male persuasion) who get strong and fast before they figure out group dynamics or physics (or other factors - like getting overheated and going off the road ... more than once... think and learn, good people!)

Whether the instruciton is formal or via finding knowledgeable folks and asking, a person can become "experienced" more quickly by doing it on purpose. Practice makes a difference, too -miles in different situations.

I've got lots and lots of miles - but still consider myself inexperienced about some things (and I'm not being humble... I'm downright ignorant ) Mainly 'cause it just takes me longer to learn some stuff...

[DeniseGoldberg]

I'm delighted to hear that Veronica was joking (although I've actually done most of the things in her list).

I consider myself a pretty experienced cyclist, but I've never tried to pick a water bottle up from the ground - and while that may be a good exercise, it's not something I have any intention of trying. I think that as you continue to ride you will continue to become more comfortable with some of the things you've listed as non-starters. Some of the things will remain though. For example, in spite of the number of years I've been riding, I still have problems getting started on a steep uphill. That's just me - and perhaps if I had more steep hills near my home and spent more time practicing, I could get over that. But it's not something I beat myself up over.

I'd say, keep riding, set reasonable goals, and enjoy yourself!

--- Denise

[RoadRaven]

Well, I have heard from local coaches, local "top" riders, riders who have been riding for decades and also read in some articles and books that it is two years...

Its not miles on the bike, or actual hours...

It two years of getting your body used to cycling on a regular basis...

Thats what I heard anyway...

[BeeLady]

I will be looking for a cycling coach - my husband has mentioned that already and it does make sense. Meanwhile I have recently done lots of internet reading on proper ettiquite/safety when riding in a group and in general because a large neighborhood group ride sponsored by our LBS is what has really gotten me fired up about cycling besides just using my bike for errands. Just competed my first event (36.5 miles) and am raring to go.

I enjoy my bike and wouldn't not ride because I felt I wasn't skilled enough. Seems like more skill will come with time and mindfulness in the saddle. Fortunately I rode a unicycle as a kid and roller skated for years so I do have some natural balance. In the '70s I rode in Houston traffic on my ten-speed for miles and miles each day, no real thought about whether or not I was skilled enough to be doing that (the bliss of being a teen).

Fast forward thirty years and I am much more cautious in traffic but will take a downhill as fast as they come, even on my 12-year-old, $200 (new) bike. (BUT, I just ordered a Bianchi Volpe to replace my workhorse -- can't wait!). Hopefully on a decent bike I won't keep thinking my front wheel is about to spin off. That's where skill would come in handy -- knowing whether I'm on a safe descent or not (easy to know its fun ).

I will re-new my search for a coach - guess cycling is like skating - most people can get around a rink but for jumps, spins and spirals it takes some instruction. Will use the limited skills I have but am always happy to learn more.

Would like to live the rest of my life as an experienced cyclist - I'm at the starting line now.

[mimitabby]

I have been logging my miles all year and I have ridden almost 2000 miles already in just this year!
Do i feel like a real experienced rider? NOPE.. you know why? Most of the people i ride with rode 5000 miles this year so far, and have done so so so much more than i will ever do.

I am seriously considering taking one of Velogirl's classes, but one of my bigger problems is that i will be 55. I don't want to fall anymore, so there are a lot of risks I just don't take (I will try the waterbottle thing though)

I guess you're experienced when you feel like it. Even the newest newbies
can get on this forum and give practical advice. it's because they've learned something and now, through their experience, they can help someone else. It's a great feeling to be able to help someone else. When you get there, you are experienced.

HOW experienced? that's another question.