so many questions

[RolliePollie]

I agree, great advice so far!

As for the helmet hurting you, I have a huge head and women's helmets are too small for me. Giro helmets don't fit me either...it's like they're made for a longer head front to back and mine is too fat or something. I had to try on a ton of helmets to find one that was comfortable. I ended up with a Bell and I think it only cost around $35. It really is amazingly comfortable...I don't even feel it up there!

I've tackled the ponytail issue by putting the helmet on while my hair is still just freely hanging there, and then doing two braids starting right behind my ears. I may look a little like Pippi Longstocking, but it keeps my hair out of the way and isn't hot on the back of my neck. It cracks me up when I can see my own shadow and here are these two braids flying out sideways!

I don't think my shoes fit right, but I've discovered that if I don't strap the velcro up too tight, they're still snug but they're much more comfortable. Based on the extremely positive reviews that Sidi's receive on this forum, they sound like a great bet to me. My next pair will be Sidi's for sure!

Best of luck to you on your century!

[Torrilin]

I could (if I were being dumb) make my current helmet give me a headache by tightening the dial adjuster in back too tight. I could probably also do it by wearing a very high ponytail and trying to jam the helmet on over it. If you don't have a dial adjustment system and it's giving you a headache, the helmet is too small. It should feel snug and not be inclined to fall off even if it's not strapped on, but not be *tight*.

I've had helmets with dial adjustment and helmets without. You can get a good fit with either, but I find I like the dial better since I can pull ponytails through in the space between the helmet and the adjustment dial. I also like being able to tuck a braid under my helmet and adjust the helmet to fit that way.

[mimitabby]

Torrilin,
I've done that too! make sure that helmet is adjusted properly!

[rachelroo]

this is such great info, thanks. I'm doing the Honolulu century. I decided to get the 5000 because there aren't any 2100's left and I would rather get a better bike than the one I wanted than a worse bike. The lbs also cut me a deal so the 5000 was only $150 more than the 2100 would have been. My helmet is a no name helmet, and it feels like it is too long but not wide enough. I suppose your right that spinning isn't cross training but I teach dance and I that works some other muscles. thanks so much for all your advice.
-Rachel

[luvs2ride]

Hey there! I just completed my first century with TNT . . they WILL get you to the finish line and you will have an awesome time at the Honolulu Century!! I just did the century in Lake Tahoe on June 3rd ("America's Most Beautiful Bike Ride"). . what an awesome experience!! I have a trek and love it ..think you'll be happy with the bike you've chosen (they are well made). As for helmets, I just got a Bell Sweep and I love it too-very comfortable and I wear a low pony tail with no problems. Good luck and GO TEAM !!!

Blessings,
Susan