First Bike Ride in Years!

[Owlie]

Good for you! No shame in walking up hills.
And welcome to TE!

[MollyJ]

I am 56 and have been cycling on a road bike for several years now. For years I rode my old mountain bike and it did everything I needed it to do. But it was heavier. Still, it got me back in the saddle.

My only thoughts are find and make friends with your local bike store. Your bike has had a maintenance check. Make sure it fits your body. Bikes can aggravate knees, too, so learn how to use your gears.

My motto is to see how much I can improve compared to myself. Cycling is a great way to challenge yourself and I find it exhilarating; hopefully you will too.

[KittiPaws]

Welcome from one newbie to another! We have similar stories. I'm 53 and just started riding a bike for the first time in years. I was an aerobics instructor for 10 years. Lost cartilage in both knees, and ended up "retiring" from aerobic dance at age 37 because my body was too beaten up to take it any more. I was heartbroken because it was the only activity I'd found that I truly enjoyed.

Congrats on making your first ride! 2 miles is awesome. Keep at it!!