First Group Ride

[Waverly]

Hi all! I have been reading the board for the last several days and thought I would introduce myself. My name is Jessica I am 23 and I have been riding for about 2 weeks. I first started riding on vacation in Key West. We rode about 10mmiles a day but it was very flat. At home I have been riding anywhere from 2 – 10 miles around my neighborhood. It is really hilly here though. I have a Trek 7200 xs I believe but don’t quote me on that. I have a helmet and gloves and have been debating purchasing shorts and things. Do any of you have suggestions on riding clothes? Do you think I should wait on the group ride? Maybe I am not going far enough yet?

Thanks,
Jessica

[Mocha Mom]

Hello!! Congrats on taking up riding! I myself am more of a tandem rider at this point but, hope in the near future to be buying a solo bike.

I would definately get some biking shorts! I love mine, make the ride much more comfortable for the longer distances. I don't have a brand I love but, I would say shop around and try them on to see what fit you like... Ask around and see what shorts people like is always good too.

happy riding!

Lisa

[Deanna]

Hello,

I recommend not only a pair of bike shorts with a chamois (not just 'bike style' shorts) but also a jersey/top that is as BRIGHTLY colored as you can stand so you are as visible as possible.

As for group rides, see if your local cycling groups have a ride list posted on the internet or somewhere. The cycling club I belong to lists their rides for the month and gives the length and categories for speed and terrain. A route is also given so if you are familiar with the roads you can decide if you are up to the challenge.

[Waverly]

Thanks for the info. I actually had my first ride with "the group" yesterday. It was great the hills just about killed me but I enjoyed the challenge. It is very hilly around here so I am gonna have to get used to that. I have seen several different types of shorts and ended up buying a pair from REI that are bike shorts underneath loose short (I felt a little silly in the spandex). There ok but I think I am gonna have to go with regular bike shorts and maybe just some loose shorts over them till I hopefully thin out some.

Lovin the spandex
Jessica

[Deanna]

You could also try the bike skorts (I love the ones I got by Terry). They hide a lot but don't have as much bulk getting in the way as baggy shorts.

Hills are my challenge to, you can only ride more to get better at them.