Okay, so yesterday I bought my beginning dream bike. I put it in the trainer and practiced getting on and off at home as well as in the shop. I have no problem getting in and out until I get out to my ride. The group of older and wiser riders oohs and ahs and I get on my bike the first time no issue - just like practicing at home. The second time, I get hooked on the seat and fall down. No big, it happens to us all. The third time, boom again. Fudge. So, now I am skinned up bad and scared to get on the bike. I opt not to ride and my older and wiser friends tell me to go home and practice in regular shoes so I can get used to it.

I agree to do so, but am TERRIFIED. I eventually get over my fear and do so. I obviously keep choking until I get back on and just suck it up, get most comfy again, and just roll with it. I did 17 miles and it was awesome.

However, whenever I think of those damn pedals, I get scared again. Clipping in and out terrifies me now.

I know it is like when I showed horses - if you fall off, you have to get back on to get "over it", but I don't know how to feel comfortable. Any suggestions other than to keep riding in regular shoes until I feel "as one" with my bike? It is a completely different feel - the wheels are bigger, the crank is way different, my seat is higher since I don't need to stop as much (not my commuter) and I feel like if I can do that, I might be comfortable. But any tips as to how to make it feel better?