Trying to adjust to a road bike

[GLC1968]

Here's another example of a touring bike that isn't loaded up. This is my Terry Classic (yes, the front wheel is smaller, because I'm smaller ) and I use it as my road bike when conditions are poor (dark, rain, etc). Of course, the day I took this picture, it was a wonderful day. I forget why I'd chosen this bike over my other road bike that day.

[Melalvai]

I rode a road bike today for the first time ever. I thought the difference between a road bike and my commuter bike is like the difference between manual and automatic transmission. Anyone who can use a clutch can drive either manual or automatic, but someone who has learned only automatic has to learn to use a clutch. It was like that with the road bike. It took me a couple tries just to mount the darn thing.

I felt like I was going to fall over the entire time. I was kind of glad when the front tire went flat after only a mile and my ride was over.

I want to try again, but on a bike that would fit me. Also, I was coming down with a cold, and felt terrible. The wind was incredibly strong and had nearly blown me over twice on my way to the bike shop. I was already inclined to change my plans, when I got the flat.