Effy: Yay for you for getting out there! I found that signing up with a bike club at least got me out once a week on a ride I wouldn't have done otherwise. And you meet others who you may end up wanting to do other rides with.

Also, for me motivation comes from fear.. fear of getting too far out of shape, and also fear that I provide myself by signing up for events, races or triathlons. It's not bad fear, just a "healthy fear"...?!

But if I am committed to doing something (ie, I've paid for a tri, I've told others about it, taken the time off work), then darn it, I better be prepared! I can tell you that is the ONLY reason I make it to the pool at all to swim!

As for riding, just getting out there more, and becoming more comfortable will make the rides a lot more desirable in the future.

ENJOY!