Did I make a mistake?

[goldfinch]

If it's a triple: Largest ring is for going really fast on flats or downhills (generally); I still haven't quite built up enough strength for it. Smallest one is for hills, and the one in the middle can do both, depending on what gear you're using in back. Many people (me included) spend most of their time there.

She has the Ruby Apex Compact so she has a double on the front rather than a triple. Given that, it makes sense to do a lot of riding while she gets comfortable in the small ring in the front and practice shifting on the rear. The empty parking lot is a good idea.

Good point on the fact that the gearing is different on road bike. I was wondering if newtothis was trying to ride around in the big chain ring on the front (the "hard" gear).