Very New with a few questions

[Munch]

Thanks everyone for the comments. I think I'm going to take it in to the LBS and see what we can do with the handlebars and possibly reposition the brakes. I was going to try to reposition the tilt myself but the bolt is rusted and probably needs to be replaced anyways. I just called the LBS and they said they'd be happy to help me get it adjusted for my riding style. I'll try to go with the lower end adjustments simply because I don't want to dump a whole lot into this bike. My plans were to get riding cheap and if I stay with it and really enjoy it, then get a better bike a some point. Money is tight so that's something I would have to save for.

Thanks again everyone!

[Jiffer]

There are three basic positions on the handlebars. When you say you put your hands on the top part of the handlebars, I assume you mean your hands are side by side, as if holding onto a bar. Many road bikes don't have brakes in that area and, therefore, riders will typically ride with their hands close to the shifters, which are also brakes. This area of the handlebars is called the hoods. This is not the "drop" position. This is still the top part of the handlebars, but off to the sides where one can shift and brake easily. Here's a link to a photo of what I'm talking about. http://candmwanderings.wordpress.com...es/handlebars/

Getting down into the drops is definitely more of a stretch on the body and can take some getting used to. I used to feel like I had less control when in my drops and didn't feel I could brake as easily. This is the opposite of how it should be. I changed my handlebars out for smaller ones. Some people refer to them as women specific handlebars, but the ones I got were simply smaller than what I had. They were for women or smaller men. My husband and I are both 5'9". After I got mine and loved them, he got some as well and prefers them over what he had.

I actually spend a lot of time in my drops. Any time I want to be more aerodynamic on a flat or downhill.

Bike fit is very important. Whether it's your handlebar adjustment, seat adjustment, etc., all these things make a big difference in your overall ride experience and, the more you ride, the less aches and pains you will ultimately experience.

[Munch]

Thanks Jiffer, I didn't know any of that!

Yes, I was meaning that I have been steering with my hands side by side. That picture was very helpful. I don't have hoods on my bike, the brakes are uncovered. Also my shifters are in the middle of my handle bar. I have rode some with my hands near where the hoods should be, but have never tried to brake from this position. I will try that tonight.