Brand new cyclist

**elbowglitter** · 07-19-2011, 04:57 AM

Hi all! I'm a very excited, very brand new cyclist. In fact, I don't even have my bike yet!

Background - I'm a runner, and have completed a number of half marathons. I'm not fast, but I love it. And since a number of friends bike (and some are triathletes), I decided to take up biking as well. I loved it as a kid, and am excited to have some new cross-training to add to my life.

I'm pretty terrified about the whole process. Tried out a bunch of bikes at a few different bike shops this weekend, and absolutely fell in love with one. Sat on the decision for a day and then called to put a deposit on the bike. I'm getting properly fitted for her on Saturday morning and hope to be taking a bike home that day! I've been looking for a bike for a while, but the first shop I went into wanted nothing to do with this newbie. A cycling friend took me to her favorite shops, and they were all so wonderful and didn't make me feel like an idiot even though I don't know anything.

I've got a lot to learn, but I'm really excited! I can't wait to get out there and ride and have some bruises to show off (man, clipless pedals scare me - but I think I'm going to go for them anyway!).

**Owlie** · 07-19-2011, 05:12 AM

Hi, and welcome to TE!

What did you get? We love pictures--post some when you pick it up!

I personally wouldn't go for clipless pedals right out of the gate--it's possible, but I think it's a bit much while you're trying to get used to the bike.

**colorisnt** · 07-19-2011, 05:42 AM

I would get used to the bike first and then go clipless later. I rode a lot before getting the bike, but I still wish I would have waited to get them put on later. You may get a deal on them when you buy your bike, which is all good, just buy them if you want and then get them put on later.

We definitely need pictures! Welcome to cycling. I used it as a replacement for running, which I couldn't do very well anymore thanks to my bad feet. It's much easier on your body and I actually enjoy it even more!

**elbowglitter** · 07-19-2011, 05:48 AM

I like the idea of getting the clipless and just putting them on later. I hear it's pretty easy to switch them out, something that I could do myself. Thanks for the suggestion! Plus then I don't have to worry about getting shoes right away and can shop around a bit.

I got a Felt ZW6. I tried a number of bikes, some "better" and some "lower," but this one just seemed right. I will definitely be taking tons of pics.

**colorisnt** · 07-19-2011, 06:13 AM

Elbow,

That's what I'm thinking. A pedal wrench will be helpful when you replace the pedals, but you might get the shop to agree to do it at a later date for free since you will buy the pedals there - always ask!

Felts are nice bikes! We still need pictures!

**Mako** · 07-19-2011, 06:35 AM

Hi,

Felt ZW6? Niiiiiice! I nearly got one of those!

**zoom-zoom** · 07-19-2011, 06:41 AM

Originally Posted by elbowglitter

I like the idea of getting the clipless and just putting them on later. I hear it's pretty easy to switch them out, something that I could do myself. Thanks for the suggestion! Plus then I don't have to worry about getting shoes right away and can shop around a bit.

I got a Felt ZW6. I tried a number of bikes, some "better" and some "lower," but this one just seemed right. I will definitely be taking tons of pics.

Good deal--that looks like a lot of bike for the price! And to have found a shop that is good to you...that's a major bonus!

I agree with waiting on the clipless pedals. And your wait may not even be that long. Give yourself a few weeks to a month or so and you'll probably find that you feel comfortable enough to give them a try. You can always set yourself up in a doorway and practice clipping in and out until you go on the road, too.

**elbowglitter** · 07-23-2011, 11:10 AM

The bike, she is here! Sadly, I can't find my camera cord, so no pics... yet...

Went with the standard seat for now and cages rather than clipless. Gotta get used to riding before I do anything else. The bike shop was great and discounted all my accessories when I purchased, which is really nice.

Unfortunately, it's 104 degrees out, so not the best day to go out for a bike. Maybe tomorrow... after my 9 mile run. I'm not sure when I became this person!

**elbowglitter** · 07-23-2011, 01:38 PM

And here she is.

Can't wait for the weather to cool a bit so I can take her out. I'm already dealing with a crushing headache and exhaustion from the heat today and I didn't think I was out that long! Certainly wasn't exerting myself!

**indysteel** · 07-23-2011, 01:59 PM

Pretty bike! Have fun with it, and welcome to TE!

**Owlie** · 07-23-2011, 02:45 PM

Ooh, pretty! Enjoy!

**KatzPajamas** · 07-23-2011, 03:59 PM

Thanks for the pic, you have a beautiful bike! ENJOY!

**Bike Writer** · 07-23-2011, 05:04 PM

Wow, beautiful bike. It looks fast just sitting still. Good luck with it and welcome to TE!

**zoom-zoom** · 07-23-2011, 07:00 PM

Ooh, I love all the white touches with the components...really cool contrast to the color of the frame...likey a lot!

**Koronin** · 07-23-2011, 07:03 PM

Welcome! Very pretty bike.

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