first longer ride-mixed feelings

[trinena]

I live in San Ramon - sounds like we are pretty close in distance. I have trained new cyclists for years. I led a no drop ride for women only for about 10 years and we met once a month on a Saturday morning. I also sponsored a clinic for couples showing how to equalize riding abilities and enjoy riding together. I only work on Thursdays and Fridays and would be glad to ride with you on a Mon, Tues or Wed. I am an ex-racer and ride with a group of women - about 10 of us - every Saturday. My kids are in school too - 5th and 7th grades. We could go out for short rides. I tell all riders, not just new ones riding with their husbands, cross streets and stop at lights for your own safety. don't try to keep up with faster riders. Safety is your first concern. Bekki

Hi Vinbek - Thank you for your offer! I think San Ramon is about a half hour from Oakland? I'll pm you this wknd for more details. That clinic for couples was such a great idea. You must have witnessed some interesting dynamics.

[trinena]

i went out with the DH again and I was very clear to him about going slow & stopping & all that. He showed me the back way to the park that I'd like to ride around for practice on my own. I had to repeat "relax" to myself on a busy intersection. This time we were on our cross bikes and we rode on the grass - a good workout! so call me crazy but I wanted him to show me how to dismount. He broke it down in a few steps (he's relatively new to cross but racing) and I got so far as to unclipping the right foot, coasting, pulling it up over the saddle, leaning to steady the bike and then back into being clipped. It was fun but of course no cars to deal with on the grass. Call me crazier but I'm actually thinking of going to a free beg. cross clinic. Which reminds me I should give my DH props for being a good & patient teacher today. Thanks again to EVERYONE who has replied & shared. Your responses have been incredibly encouraging & helpful to me. DH just informed he might have scored me lighter tires for my cross bike. so sweet!