Think what VeloGirl said in the beginning is a really good point, about how we wouldn't try to drive a car without instruction, so why would we do that on a bike? I have also been reflecting upon my first season as a new rider and thinking about what I want to accomplish next season. Improving my handling skills is at the top of the list, primarily for descending (which I love and I want to do it even faster) and obstacle avoidance (the bike paths, I'm sorry "multi-use" paths, can get very crowded). I was so shocked when I first got my bike and tried reaching for my water bottle (in the cage) and I could barely take my hand off the bars. I figured since I could do this on my mtb (not that I'm a mtb rider), I should be able to do it straight away on my road bike. WRONG! I've worked up to being able to do it while pedaling, next I'd like to be able to do it with my right hand as well. Oh, and the snot thing is funny, my nose runs at the slightest bit of wind or cold, so I'm the kleenex queen. I was so happy when I learned how to reach in my jersey pocket for my tissue and blow my nose while keeping pace. There isn't really enough of it for a snot rocket, but often too much for the glove alone . . .

The most impressive thing I've ever seen on a bike was in the TDF when one of the riders was having a problem with his rear derailleur. The mechanic pulled up in the car on his left side, reached through the rider and his top tube and around to adjust the derailleur, meanwhile the rider could not touch the car, so he maintained his hands on his bars, all at around 25 mph, OMG.