Hello from Milwaukee!

[Thorn]

Welcome Marissa! From your profile, am I right that you're over on the east side? Some nice riding on the lake front and the Milwaukee River Parkway.

Another local resource to get your riding more...stop by Bay View Bike Club's monthly meeting ( http://www.bayviewbikeclub.org/ ). Often considered a social club that happens to ride, they may give you the encouragement to get out and ride more.

[SJCzar]

Hello and welcome Marissa.

I live in the Milwaukee area as well. I definitely agree with Thorn that there are lots of great places to ride your bike in and around this city.

Another way that got me out riding more in the beginning was to sign up for some organized rides. It's nice to have the route all planned out for you, other people to ride with, drinks and snacks at the rest stops, and mechanical support.

Check the local bike shop's websites and you'll find weekly ride groups for all different levels of riders. It's a great way to make new cycling buddies and gain more confidence in your riding skills.

I'm sure you'll love commuting. I try to commute to work as much as possible and it is a wonderful way to brighten up a work day.

[Marissa]

Thank you for the welcome! Yes, I'm on the East Side. Not familiar with Wilmot, though.

Last Thursday, my dh and I went to Crank Daddy's and purchased bikes! We've gone out several times since then and just love it. I haven't biked to work yet, because after a 10 year hiatus and not yet confident enough to bike in the street. I have trouble keeping balance every time I start and stop, so I may lower the seat until I feel safer. When I'm back into the swing of things I'll definitely be looking for group rides.

[badgercat]

Ah, I used to live in Madison and my BF lived in Milwaukee... Crank Daddy's was his favorite shop.

Welcome to TE and happy riding!

[Zen]

Crank Daddy's was his favorite shop.

My supreme speed reading skills read that as Crack Daddy's