Very new and a little scared

[Crankin]

I would say I got comfortable with signaling at about 700-1,000 miles. I wasn't able to stand for a couple of years. And I still don't stand on big climbs... it takes too much energy and hurts. I can spin up just about anything, but I do stand on short rollers.
After 10 years, I am still not so good with the bottle. Yea, I know what to do, but my coordination kind of sucks. I still prefer to stop. If it's a flat road and I can slow a bit, I'm OK.
Riding in groups and commuting to work got me over the fear of traffic. While I don't ride in downtown Boston, I do ride in suburban traffic and in some situations I would have never dreamed of just 3-4 years ago. I feel pretty confident, too. I am very cautious and safety oriented, and I don't really care what others think.

[JennK13]

There's no set time to get used to doing these things. Take your time - people get hurt when they push themselves too far before they are ready.

As for the bumps, you have to keep a relaxed hold on the bike. Keep soft hands, dont grip too hard, and keep your elbows soft. When we're too stiff and rigid, it jars us even more and harder, thus scaring us even more. When your arms are bent and soft, they will absorb the bumps you go over.

[Owlie]

The first several rides I took on my road bike were terrifying. I'm still not entirely comfortable with signaling (hence my preference for bike paths or riding with DBF). Bumps...that's been an issue for me too, and I just try to remember that the bike wants to stay upright as long as it's moving...and to try to relax the death grip. Easier said than done, I know...