Quote Originally Posted by Muirenn View Post
If you were using the smallest rings the entire time, that could explain it. When I 'spin' I keep the rotations per minute at 70-90. But I'm used to it. Hard to say how fast you were going, but the lowest gears going downhill would be next to impossible for me.

Try putting the chain in the middle of the rear cassette to start. And did you get the bike from a local shop? Go back, have them put you on the trainer, and learn to shift. They shouldn't let you out of the shop with a Madone without first making sure you are proficient at shifting. You can damage the drivetrain if you don't do it right, or drop the chain in a bad place in traffic.

Sheldon Brown is always good to read.

And try this video.

You should only shift with the left hand (up front) if the chain in the rear is near the middle setting. This way you avoid cross-chaining.
Muirenn,
Great sources of information. Thanks!