Total Novice

[NancyT]

Thanks so much, yes I have a bike computer. Great advice and I will start reading.

[Owlie]

I'm just going to add that, if you pay attention, you don't need a computer with a cadence function. It's nice to see numbers, sure, but not necessary. If I notice myself flagging, I drop a gear. If I notice that little "jump" at the top of each pedal stroke, I click up one. I'd rather not spend all the time freaking out because I'm not in a certain range.

There are several mirror related threads around here

[NancyT]

thanks. I think my computer is pretty basic. Good advice, appreciate it!

[Jiffer]

The idea with "what gear to be in" is to determine what is easiest of "you". Some people do better spinning at a higher cadence on hills and some do better mashing or somewhere in between. One of the ideas with keeping it at a faster cadence, is that it saves your muscles, so you don't get tired out too quickly on a long ride.

An efficient cyclist is changing gears often, even on seemingly insignificant grade changes. If you are on a "mostly" flat road and, say your cadence is at 90, and a small hump in the road is approaching, it's best to change your gear as you start that hump so that you can stay at a 90 cadence until you are over it, then switch back.

You can learn a lot by riding with more experienced riders and paying attention to how fast they are spinning, when they change gears ... and a lot of the stuff.

Congrats on the new bike and the new love of riding.