What Did You Want To Know As a New Rider?

[loopybunny]

I eventually had questions about the dos and don'ts of riding with a group of people.

In fact, I wish more people thought to ask that question, particularly the woman that cut me off and caused the crash that landed me in the hospital with a traumatic brain injury.

[meganm]

I had no clue about a lot of things when I started riding. It's a wonder I didn't have a flat for 3 years, because I never carried a tube or a pump- I didn't know any better and it was dumb luck that I never got stranded.

I've learned a lot from others in group rides, but the mechanical lessons I've learned from free LBS clinics have been invaluable. There is a big difference between having the tools and know how and when to use them!

[Crankin]

Thank you, everyone for all of these suggestions. We were able to shift the focus a little in the context of of the planned agenda; we spent a long time talking about gearing, like DH asked "What's your most important gear?" There was one person in each session who said "the lowest" and we went from there, talking about shifting to get up a hill, how beginners run into trouble, etc.
I also was able to give a perspective on starting with clipless pedals, from someone who is not that coordinated, which several people thanked me for.
I am exhausted from talking all day and my feet hurt from standing, but this is the one volunteer thing I do that I actually enjoy.
Now for the beer and ribs later on...