RobbinG you do sound smart :-) Thanks for the links I added them to my favorites. There is a short paved path next to my house about 3 miles maybe, I guess i can practice on it. My problem is not clipping in or out, it's more a fear of the traffic. But living in NY its something you have to deal with if you want to ride. I actually called Huntington club, and spoke with a C ride leader, who informed me that he will def. show me and teach me riding in the streets. It's 14-17mph on average ride, I can average 18 mph so I guess i should be fine with that for sure. It always amazes me when i see roadies in Manhattan, riding between yellow cabs and buses. Well thanks again