Young as I feel! But am I mad?

[SouthernBelle]

Ditto what they said. I was just looking at photos from the ride I did this weekend and there were women of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds, on every kind of bike you can imagine. I'm 52 and only wish I had started much younger.

[Zen]

I'm 52 and only wish I had started much younger.

I hear you there.

[RoadRaven]

...wish I had started much younger.

I hear you there.

Ditto... ditto...

[SouthernBelle]

I thought this would be a good spot to post the link to the short route pictures from my ride this weekend. It shows an amazingly diverse group of women riders:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/billsab...7601932330246/

All ages, sizes, ethnic backgrounds, abilities, even bikes!

[Caecilia]

That is a great looking group of riders, Susan.

Moptop, check out this NPR program (direct link to MP3 file) - the second half is about Madeleine McBroom, who got into cycling in her 50s and decided to climb Alpe d'Huez. I love this picture of her with her dog:

[Moptop]

Big thanks to Caecilia for the radio item on Madeleine McGroom, who rode up l'Alpe d'Huez - there is inspiration for me! Alpine passes are exactly what I want to do! Luckily I have an ever-encouraging husband so I am hoping to achieve.

Also to SouthernBelle who linked me up with photos of all manner of cyclists - men too! supporting the Breast Cancer ride. I loved the WICKED logo. As a Survivor of some 13 years I thank all of you who supported the event on behalf of those who will profit by it later.

Took my new bike out for its first airing today (only got it home last weekend and was too busy to take it out ( ) This was quite hilarious. I sneaked out early to have a secret trial - only to find workmen on a neighbour's roof! This was especially embarassing as we live on a hill and I got very muddled up by the three chainrings and the hand-shifters on the bars (my last bike had them on the down tube and only 2 chainrings) I had to get off to see what on earth was happening three times! aargh! then again the saddle was not quite right - so I did not make the graceful impression I had intended at all!

Going back with my tail between my legs resolved to get up even earlier tomorrow to beat the crowds, before they charge admission! I know one thing, though. Once I get the gear shifting right I am going to have one whole whale of a time!

[SouthernBelle]

You'll catch on pretty quickly. It's actually pretty simple when you get the hang of it. I'm always losing track of where I am in the gearing.

Try just putting it on the middle ring up front and playing with the back shifting for a bit. Then add on the front shifting.

[Starfish]

Going back with my tail between my legs resolved to get up even earlier tomorrow to beat the crowds, before they charge admission!

Heck, if I could only get people to pay me for the privilege of embarrassing myself, I'd be rich! I say, go out there in midday and charge 'em!!

[Python]

I'm 50 and only took up cycling last year after a gap of over 40 years

Great way to get from A to B, have fun, save money, help the environment and keep fit all at the same time