newbie with lots to learn!

[mtbmargie]

Thanks for those responses! That was helpful guidance for starting out. I did find a trail near my house that is apparently good for beginners learning techniques. I hope I get a chance to get out there. Unfortunately I don't have anyone to ride with. My boyfriend is living in TX at the moment so I can't even go out with him. Looks like I'm on my own! But definitely looking forward to it. I'll definitely look around for clinics but as winter approaches i'm sure my skill learning may have to hold off until spring. Well thank you ladies for your warm welcome and wonderful advice. I hope to hit a trail this weekend... still waiting for my bike. They say it should get in tomorrow... crossing my fingers... toes and eyes! I'll let you guys know how my first riding adventure goes!
Thanks!
-m

[Irulan]

if you can find a group of gals to ride with, I find that's a great way to get comfortable with the sport. It takes you out of the relationship dynamic and keeps you focused on fun and learning.

check out my bike stuff for skills tips.

Irulan

[RoadRaven]

Welcome Margie!
Always glad to hear of another who has caught the cycling craze...

Absolutely try and find at least a buddy who takes the risks you want to take... and ride with bf sometimes, and with buddy as well... the things people say offer so much

of course, this forum is a wealth of wisdom - the women here are so supportive and share their experiences and realities... its marvellous!

[mtbmargie]

Thanks RoadRaven and Irulan! I finally got my new bike last Thursday. The weather was beautful all weekend down here and was able to take my new baby out for a spin. I spent Saturday getting used to the clipless pedals and just getting accustomed to being on a bike... only fell twice Then Sunday I went out to an easy mtb trail about 6miles long. I'm proud to say I got through it! I only had to walk up one hill but the others I tackled hardcore. I'm super excited after my first ride. I can't wait to go on more! Definitely bit by the bug See you all around the forums!

[RoadRaven]

Hey there Margie...

One of the best bits of advice I got on this forum was regarding clip-in pedals (I refuse to call them clipless and am staging my own revolution!)...

But the advice is...

Always unclip yourself on the same side, get in that habit so it becomes locked in your muscle memory, and as you put your foot down, always turn your wheel away from your free foot...

Your bike will always try and lean into the unclipped foot if you turn the wheel away from it, and because it is leaning into you, you will not topple toward the ground on the clipped in side...

Haven't fallen when unclipping myself since! Just brilliant!

[SadieKate]

Always unclip yourself on the same side,

I agree with all the technique to unclipping. Very good advice.

However, mtbikers need to be able to do it on both sides. Sometimes there is nothing under that side of the bike or you want to have the inside foot out in a turn or . . . geez, you're already falling that way.

[RoadRaven]

LOL... sorry... I forget about mountain bikes having clip-in pedals...

I ride my Black Thunder and it has none... and even though having read here NUMEROUS times about MB's having clip-in pedals, because I haven't done it I forget.

Apologies Margie... I guess my advice should be shortened... forget always the same leg, and remember always turn your front wheel (even just a tiny bit is enough) away from the side you have freed your foot from...