Total Newbie

[schnitzle]

Welcome Shannon! It's wonderful that you're giving cycling another try!
I'm new to biking too, and it's really the only exercise I've ever truly enjoyed.

This is an awesome place to learn and get good solid advice, I think you'll love it here

[Catrin]

Welcome to TE!

I just learned how to ride a bike in December 2009 myself and now am riding much further than I would have dreamed at the time. I am not the most coordinated person out there, so if I can do it anyone can

You might want to check other bike stores in your area to see if they have any basic bike riding classes or individual lessons. I took two one-on-one classes to get started. I have been told that it is easier to learn on a hill - but thinking back I would have found that more intimidating than a nice flat parking lot, for sure.

You can also go here to find resource information from the American League of Bicyclists. This can be hit or miss as sometimes they show resources for my city and sometimes it doesn't - and we have a lot of resources here.

If you decide to work with an instructor, it is best that they be certified through an organization like the League. This was helpful to me because I did not know anyone else who rode and had no idea how to proceed.

You can do this, and you will find that as you learn it becomes more and more fun in the process!

Welcome to TE!

[DebbieOSablada]

Hurrah for you Shannon

[trista]

Shannon, good for you! I agree w/ the suggestion of lowering your seat while you're still getting the feel for balance.

Sorry about your experience w/ the LBS. At my local LBS, I've had a couple negative experiences, so I've learned who to ask for and who to avoid. If the people I like arent' there when I come in, I leave and come back another day.