Introductions - Hello from Iowa

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View Full Version : Hello from Iowa

besserheimerpha
06-24-07, 04:27 PM
Hi, my name is John and I'm going to be getting into cycling (novice mountain biking specifically). I know, I know - mountain biking in Iowa? Actually, I live in the country so gravel roads/minimum maintainence roads are the closest thing around. And if you've never been to Iowa, the topography is has lots of rolling hills. We're much hillier than Nebraska, the Dakotas, eastern Wyoming, etc etc.

Anyway, I'm getting into to lose weight - I'm definitelly a Clydesdale. I decided to do biking because of the lower joint impact than jogging, and I just can't get into walking. I've tried, and it's just not for me.

I don't have a bike yet, but will continue researching until September when I'm able to purchase. My employer has an employee wellness program, where by working out and logging your activity over the course of a year, you can earn gift certificates to health related business in the area. I've worked out enough to earn a $200 gift certificate in September to facilitate this first bike purchase. I'm looking forward to getting into better shape. See you in the other forums,

John

East Hill
06-24-07, 04:38 PM
Hello John, you've obviously found the Clydes/Athenas forum--there's a great group of people over there. You are lucky with the employer wellness program. A lot of companies talk big about employee fitness, but most don't help fund that lifestyle choice.

Good luck, and don't forget to post. I do a lot of lurking in the Clydes forum, so I'll see you there.

Welcome to BF!

East Hill
twobikes
06-24-07, 06:06 PM
I was born and raised near Monticello (between Cedar Rapids and Dubuque). In those days I rode balloon tired cast iron clunkers with coaster brakes. The gravel roads were not always fun, but they were all that was available and we did not know better. The ridge of gravel at the side of the road from the road graders was difficult if you need to move to the right and get into that mound of soft gravel. The cloud of dust from a passing car was also a lot to manage. Congratulations on your determination. Still, the benefits will be worth it.

Have you considered something with an internally geared hub to reduce abrasive action on bike components from the road dust? Could you borrow a less than ideal bike to ride until you can afford the bike you want? The extra riding would benefit you now.