HI Sadie,
I'm with you on age, I'm 56 and soon to be 57 in October. I also want to resurrect my riding abilities and learn how to do it better. I know there are gears and i know I can shift to make it easier but I don't know what down shifting and upshifting an when to do it at all I think by the time I should have shifted it's too late and I can't move it and have to walk.

I am ordering a bike that was fit for me at the end of the month. Yes, when were children, I think the only concern was reaching the peddles. now it's tires, seat and reach to handlebars, bend in the leg, etc.

Wheels are different, We have mountain bikes, hybrids or City bikes, and racing bikes. Remember when it was just a white sneaker to choose from? Now you go to Lady Footlocker and they have a whole store just for women's sneakers. !!!!! Never!!!!

So, I'm going to follow behind you and see how you do for a while. I know they say, nothing is really *needed* but a helmet. You can get the riding pants and gloves, and whatever when ever.

I say, get your helmet now. If possible. get ridding pants. but if funds aren't there, check Craigs list. I just saw a lady where I live selling a lot of riding pants and jerseys. They may have some in your area also. Check Marshalls and TJ Maxx.

How did you measure your distance? did you drive the car and then know this is 12/14 miles?

Nice to meet you and sorry if I was long winding but I feel like we are both in the same room and I wanted to hi and welcome from another newbie.