HELP! DYING on my road bike

[leah]

Thanks! I did get it from a local shop. I wrote to the woman who sold me the bike and we will see what she says.

According to my bike computer, I averaged about 12 miles an hour, but was much slower on the uphill (it is a very slight grade)- more like 9-10 mph. The fastest I ever got up to was 13 mph and that was on the downhill.

When I tried to shift up to a higher (more difficult) gear, I found it too tough to pedal at all for more than a few pedal strokes. I thought I did understand shifting but I guess I don't?! The bike is a compact... so when you say middle gear are you referring to a triple?

[indysteel]

This a longshot, but make sure neither of your brakes are rubbing. I had a rear break that never wanted to stay centered and would rub against my tire. I thought I was just woefully out of shape.

[redrhodie]

Check to see if your brakes are rubbing. Give your wheels a spin to see. I learned this the hard way.

[redrhodie]

Jinx, Indy!

[leah]

Hmm, I just tried it and the front wheel does not turn easily at all. But for the life of me I can't see where the brake might be rubbing? I might have to take it into my LBS.

[Penny4]

Check the tire pressure too!

[Blueberry]

Hmm, I just tried it and the front wheel does not turn easily at all. But for the life of me I can't see where the brake might be rubbing? I might have to take it into my LBS.

Definitely take it to the LBS and have them take a look and show you! Could be off center in how it was put in, etc. But that's something you want to know how to adjust.