Congratulations on the new bike! You're gonna have a blast!

I started riding a little over two years ago on a Trek hybrid. It allowed me to start out on a bike that was comfortable for me. My first year I really enjoyed riding but only rode a little--once or twice a week and fairly short distances.

Last year I got a bit more serious and started riding more regularly and setting goals for longer distances. But I live in southern Indiana which is fairly hilly, and the hills just were NOT getting any easier, no matter how many times I rode them. My friends said, "you're such a strong rider; when you get a road bike you're going to fly up those hills!" I simply couldn't believe that a road bike would make THAT much of a difference.

Well, in January I got a road bike (Cannondale Synapse Feminine WSD [aluminum]). It took me a few rides to get comfortable with the riding position, but now that I'm used to it, I love it. And the first time I hit the hill that kicked my butt all last year, I climbed right up with no trouble. Don't get me wrong, it was still a challenge, but I never felt like I needed to stop and never doubted I could make it. Now I go out and ride freely without worrying about bonking on the hills. I'm still SLOW, but I can ride wherever I want (around here anyway).

I'm sure you will love your hybrid. And once you've got some miles in the saddle, don't hesitate to make the leap to road. Regardless the type of bike, to me cycling is just so much FUN!

Enjoy the ride!

Shelley
aka newbiechick