Yes you can! actually, you already have! just by getting the bike that works best for you you have taken the first step. Like everyone else said, go to an empty flat parking lot and just get comfortable. Always wear a helmet and have fun!
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Thread: Can I Really Do This?
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06-13-2007, 05:23 AM #1
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06-13-2007, 05:30 AM #2
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Oh yes and if you don't have a helmet don't just go for the cheapest one, this is an accessory that you will have to wear every time you ride. Go for a helmet that has a fit that you can dial in with a plastic strap in the back. You will know what I mean when you see it. These helmets are more comfortable than any other cheap helmet at Walmart or Target.
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06-13-2007, 05:38 AM #3
Faster,Stronger,Further
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Take a Deep Breath and Say AHHHHH!
hey Lee,
Welcome to TE.Kudos to you for getting a new bike.First off,just relax and enjoy the sensation of moving your body as you haven't since you were a kid!There is no greater feeling than the freedom a bike imparts to your body and your spirit.Like the other ladies said,find an empty parking lot or a park with some grassy areas that you can practice on.Take your time and work the middle chainring until you feel confident in knowing what gear your rear cassette(back gears) are in and what combination works for you.Definitely spin easier gears so that you don't put any stress on your knees.In a couple of weeks,you'll get the hang of it and find gear combos that work best for you.If you have a real local bike shop in your area you may check with them to see if there are any bike clubs in your area that offer tips and rides for new riders.It's a great way to meet other cyclists and up your learning curve quickly.Most cyclists are a friendly,helpful bunch and alway happy to welcome someone new to the sport.Again,congrats to you and welcome to TE!
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06-13-2007, 06:46 AM #4
I like bikes
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did you hear that? school just let out! school yards are often the best place in the world to learn to ride. No one's there, no cars ever, and they're usually pretty flat.
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06-13-2007, 02:47 PM #5
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You can really do this
A good tip I like from reading this site: http://www.sheldonbrown.com/home.html
is to focus on where you want to go rather than staring at something you don't want to hit/run over. Where you put your eyes is where you end up riding. I read the tips for beginners and for braking and shifting which helped clarify some things. Good luck, keep on riding. You'll just keep getting steadier and stronger the more you practice. I had sore hands from gripping too tight the first week I rode but now practice moving my hands around and opening & closing them where there aren't cars close by. I recommend helmet & gloves too.
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06-13-2007, 06:51 PM #6
It Matters To This One
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You've Done An Awesome Thing For Yourself!
I really don't have anything to add to the great advice these women have already written, except to say YAY!! Woohoo!! Another awesome woman has made the choice to ride a bike! You might not know it, yet, but you are about to start getting in touch with your inner athlete.
I have found biking (and I came to it a little later in life) to be incredibly empowering, energizing, and FUN. Yep, sometimes frustrating, and sometimes humbling, but ultimately, wonderful!
And, you came to the right place. The women on this forum are remarkable, and awesome!"The best rides are the ones where you bite off much more than you can chew, and live through it." ~ Doug Bradbury
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06-15-2007, 12:17 PM #7
TimeTrial Wannabe
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Most excellent to hear about another cycling babe!
Bikes are the solution to many with bad knees (my partner rides because he deteriorated his knees running marathon distances... my mother bikes beacause her weight has given her bad knees).
My mum bought a bike when she was not long after hitting her 60s, having not been on one since she was 9yrs old! She loves it. It is improving her overall fitness and has changed her shape a little as she begins to build muscle...
I have been on one for a about 3 years now - I'm in my early 40s... and its making a great difference to my overall well being and to my fitness... weight loss is a pleasant side-effect.
Welcome to our club
Courage does not always roar. Sometimes, it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying,
"I will try again tomorrow".
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06-15-2007, 01:31 PM #8
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I'm a newbie too, so I don't have advice beyond the excellent suggestions given here - but I can add to the encouragement! Congrats on the new bike!!
"I have bursts of being a lady, but it doesn't last long." ~Shelley Winters
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06-16-2007, 06:05 PM #9
latelatebloomer
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Boy, did you come to the right place! I'm a proud big rider, and my advice, stolen from G.Terry, is to take it easy and have fun. Cycling is really exciting and it can be easy to over-do, so listen to your body, ride lots but give your strength and skills the time they need to build. And be PROUD of yourself! You are doing something marvelous for yourself and you will have some great changes in your life!
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