buying my first bike for a tri

[HillSlugger]

I live in central Florida which is by our standards cold right now (52). But as soon as I get my bike plan to ride a lot outside. Any recs on how to increase my speed on the bike would be appreciated!! Thanks

Ride. Lots!

52 and no snow? That would be like heaven right now

[KnottedYet]

Ride. Lots!

YES!!!!!

Ride lots. Ride everywhere. Ride to the grocery store, the post office, your haircut appointment.

You'll be amazed how much faster than usual you'll ride during the tri. The excitement and the adrenalin just push you along at a wild pace, and you feel fabulous!

Ride! Ride! Ride!

[myfirsttri]

Thanks for the advice. Getting my bike today, yeah!! Will start riding in neighborhood first (BIG neighborhood) then as I get my courage up will ride on roads. My big fear is to be hit by a car. Had a friend that was a bicycle lover and rode everywhere. She was hit and killed by a truck that ran up over a crub while making a turn,she was waiting to cross the intersection.

[redrhodie]

Thanks for the advice. Getting my bike today, yeah!! Will start riding in neighborhood first (BIG neighborhood) then as I get my courage up will ride on roads. My big fear is to be hit by a car. Had a friend that was a bicycle lover and rode everywhere. She was hit and killed by a truck that ran up over a crub while making a turn,she was waiting to cross the intersection.

Oh, that's so sad.

You need more than courage to ride on the roads. You might want to take a bike safety class. I'm sure others on the forum will be able to steer you in the right direction. I think the League of American Bicyclists offers them.

http://www.bikeleague.org/

[myfirsttri]

Thanks that sounds like a great idea. Will look into it.

[redrhodie]

Did you get your bike? I'd love to see a pic!

[TsPoet]

Do you have a local club(s)? Even in my relatively small town there are 2 bike clubs - 1 is purely a "social riding" club. If you can find a club like that, they will help you get out on the road. You won't be alone, and I bet there will be people in the club happy to mentor you as to the best way to ride through your specific intersections etc.
Good luck and keep us posted!