I want to start cycling but I AM SHY!!!

[equus123]

geez. the first time i ever fell over with my bike was teaching someone new how to NOT fall over. lol oh well!

[singletrackmind]

Totally understand what you mean. I was scared to ask 'stupid' questions, scared to look like a total newb.

Well, I swallowed hard and asked! I rode! I fell down! And then I didn't. I was embarrassed but I got over it and so will you. No one pointed. No one laughed. Now, after all this time I've ridden in many diverse groups and they all (except the elitist idiots who aren't worth anyone's time anyways) never laughed at someone new. Many are happy to offer advice and help out. It's good to see another person on a bike and we all had to learn.

Do it. Don't let a little worry over getting started stop you before you even step foot on the bike. If you go clipless adjust them so they are very easy to get out of and practice somewhere soft first. Try not to be afraid to ask questions and learning some basic maintenance on your bike will make you feel empowered. Being able to change a flat is a good feeling. (and then get some tire liners so you aren't as likely to have to).

You can do it you can do it you can do it you can do it........it's not about what you wear (except the helmet) or what you ride, it's about enjoying yourself. Last I checked recreational riding's not a talent or a fashion show.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

I always liked the scene in the movie "PeeWee's Big Adventure"- where he's riding his bike and then does a spectacularly embarrassing fall right in front of some little kids. He gets up and says "I MEANT to do that!"- I loved it!

[northstar]

Lunita,

It's ok to be shy about it at first. I can understand. I was afraid of looking stupid, of falling in front of other people, of people judging the way I looked in my clothes, of being laughed at for making mistakes, whatever...it's ok to be nervous. Once you get started, you will relax and start to enjoy yourself, and soon you will be over the nerves.

That being said, I don't do club rides. I either ride alone or with a friend. I pick routes where there isn't much traffic to deal with, or I ride trails in parks. It's kind of "me" time. Pretty soon you will be proud of yourself for taking the risk!

Get out there!

[amymisk]

I have fallen more than once and just recently on my brand new carbon race bike! Just laugh it off, get back on, and ride.