Just beginning & looking for advice

[cougncali]

Welcome to cycling Beckster!!!

For water I usually tend to carry a small hydration pack... it keeps the water colder with an insulating hose. It doesn't weigh much, (although it takes getting used to having it on your back), and for longer rides you have plenty of fluids.

[beckster]

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions and advice. I will definitely be putting it all to good use, starting this weekend. People in the bike shop should be loving me soon, though like Melody, money is indeed an issue. One thing at a time, right?

And I love the quote about the open mind--had me LOL!

[RebeccaAnn]

Bester, are you by chance a Rebecca?

To increase hand options, I installed Cane Creek ergo bar ends on my hybrid's flat bar a couple months ago. I love them.

For long distance riding I prefer drop bars (with the bars unfashionably high), you get more options that way. The bar ends on the flat bar are a great improvement and I wish I'd done it the day I bought the bike.

To see what these look like, try the Terry site. They're standard on the touring bike--either the Classic or Symmetry, I can never remember which is touring and which is road. I have the Terry hybrid, which came with non-ergo aluminum bar ends (I never used them).

Happy riding!

[beckster]

RebeccaAnn--

Yes, I am also a Rebecca.

Thanks for the tips on the handlebars.
I put in 50 miles again yesterday and I find that I get annoyed at being unable to alter my positioning--hence, no relief for any body part. Meanwhile, my partner can hold his handlebars, rest on bars he's got in the center of his handlebars, lean forward, sit up, etc. (Grumble, grumble)
Also developed left knee pain yesterday that went away quickly, but am not sure what its source is/was.
Anyhow, I'll check into your suggestions.
Thanks!