I just bought a road bike after a long time riding a hybrid. I'm so excited to eventually lose my fear of the clipless pedals and get on the trail!

I'm looking forward to riding but because my mother suffers from sever arthritis in her knees (three knee replacements) I'm wondering if cycling will help me to keep arthritis at bay or if it will speed up the inevitable (me getting arthritic knees). I'm curious if riding and gaining strength in my knees will help or hinder me later on.