how many seasons and/or miles til experienced?

[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