Great grandma beginner

[pll]

Since you mentioned the numb finger and looking at your bike's picture, I will recommend Ergon grips. In addition to offering more support for your hands, many models include bar ends, which give you alternative positions for your hands while riding. I've read in several places that their pedals are also very nice.

[sashadieken]

I had to google Ergon grips to see what they were, but that's pretty much what I have--and love! I wondered how I would do today because I chopped into my left index finger with a knife yesterday but I wore my husband's xl gloves and did fine. It was nice to have those grips to rest my palm on while holding the finger in the air!
I went 8.3 miles in an hour so that is slightly faster, but I don't know how I'll be able to get to 14-16 miles in an hour!

[hebe]

I went 8.3 miles in an hour so that is slightly faster, but I don't know how I'll be able to get to 14-16 miles in an hour!

I don't wish to be an enabler, but.... my average was about the same as yours, than I bought my Specialized Vita, and I'm almost at 13mph average now without trying. Thinner tyres on my vita would push it up a bit more too.

[sashadieken]

Hebe,
You are indeed wicked! Yes, I'm thinking I will end up with another bike or two. I have an old Spec Hardrock that I have yet to see if I can swing my leg over. Yesterday I lowered it from the ceiling and just looked at it!

[hebe]

HardRocks are great! I have a Vita, a HardRock and a Marin Stinson. You'll be able to get a good speed with less nobbly tyres and with the front suspension fork locked out (if it does lock out). I'd always go for the Vita first for longer road rides though.