I'm a new rider, too. (been riding about 7 weeks). Have you had your bike fit to you specifically? My LBS has this service for $50 and it's the best $50 I ever spent on biking! I just couldn't believe the difference it made... I had been riding about 8 miles and was sooo sore! The day after the adjustments to my bike, I went for a 20 mile ride and had no pain at all! Anyway, just something you may want to think about... Happy riding!