And yet another Newbie if you can handle it!

[Dazeepetals]

Hello ladies,

Just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Starla and I've been lurking here for awhile now. I've been an avid spinner for the past 6 months and have had strong desires to take it outside. When I met my boyfriend about 3 months ago, I knew it was perfect since he is a manager of a LBS and an avid cyclist! He's pushed me (didn't take much effort) to get out and get a bike. So, here I am! I finally got my bike on Saturday, but haven't had a chance to really get it out on the road since it's been cool and I'm pretty much at work from daybreak to dust. The itch to get on it was just to strong tonight, so I rode it up and down my parking garage just to get a little taste of it....and I love it!!! My first ride will be Saturday, I don't care how cold it is, I'm riding!

So, here it is. It's a 09' Trek Madone 4.5 WSD. Excuse the poor picture (I'm ashamed since I'm a photog lover) but I couldn't get outside in the light to get proper pics. Also, excuse the clip covers, I kept them on until I ride a bit so I'm comfortable with clips.

[Tokie]

Welcome Dazee -(I think of it as Dazeepedals) Your bike it a beauty! You will figure out how to dress for cold rides! And your spinning will really help you feel strong on the bike right away! Have fun! Tokie

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Cold? Um....you mean like in the 60'sF?
Get real, girl!- get on that beautiful bike and RIDE!!!!

[Dazeepetals]

Yea, I am a bit shocked that I call in the 50's cool, considering I grew up in KS which actually had a winter season unlike here. Last weekend when I wanted to ride, it was only highs in the 40's so that's cold for Houston. I haven't bought all my cool weather riding clothes yet, so I'm looking for at least 50 to ride in my shorts.

I can't complain though, it still gets into the 60's here in january.

[BleeckerSt_Girl]

Well the only things you really need to wear that are biking specific might be your padded shorts, helmet, and bike gloves (to protect your palms in a skid-out on asphalt). Aside from that you can layer on regular warm stuff like sweat pants, turtleneck, over-gloves, warm socks, etc. Keep in mind that you don't really need to be in 'official' biking clothes just to ride your bike, unless you need padded shorts for a long ride. Have some fun with funky-chic layering!

[derailed]

Lovely bike! Congrats on all of it, and enjoy the ride =)