Commuting - Back in the saddle

So I finally cracked today and got myself a Specialized Rockhopper. I figured I'd commute to work (about 5 miles) and I just have a slight obstacle, I haven't ridden a bicycle in about 15+ years (I'm 29 now) and so I'm pretty much winging it here.

I was able to test the bike around the block (which at least means I still know how to ride a bicycle). But anything after that is pretty much a mystery to me.

Suffice to say, I am quite nervous so if anyone here is in the Santa Monica area and is willing to give a newbie some pointers, please do send me a note (as I'm sure I'll need it). Online tips would also be appreciated.

Thanks in advanced and hope to see some of you on the road in the near future.

JJ

JJ, good choice on the commute. I haven't been to Santa Monica in a few years, but I think the best advice I could give would be to scout a good route. Back roads, side streets, less crowded times of day (AM & PM), room for a cyclist on the street, these are all factors to take into consideration. Ride the route on a weekend first so you have it down and don't get lost on your way in. Then on the first ride leave early to account for traffic etc.

Most importantly, don't forget to laugh at all the knuckleheads in their cages paying over $2 a gallon to get fat while you ride in.

Enjoy, Dave

Most importantly, don't forget to laugh at all the knuckleheads in their cages paying over $2 a gallon to get fat while you ride in.

And cyclists are always complaining about the hatred that motorists have towards them. Sheesh. Do you really need the name-calling and belittling?

So I finally cracked today and got myself a Specialized Rockhopper. I figured I'd commute to work (about 5 miles) and I just have a slight obstacle, I haven't ridden a bicycle in about 15+ years (I'm 29 now) and so I'm pretty much winging it here.

I was able to test the bike around the block (which at least means I still know how to ride a bicycle). But anything after that is pretty much a mystery to me.

Suffice to say, I am quite nervous so if anyone here is in the Santa Monica area and is willing to give a newbie some pointers, please do send me a note (as I'm sure I'll need it). Online tips would also be appreciated.

Thanks in advanced and hope to see some of you on the road in the near future.

JJ


Take your new machine down to the bike path. You can ride for miles without car traffic, although there can be a fair amount of skaters and other bikes on there, especially on the weekend. Also, the big beach parking lots can be a good place to practice at quiet times of the day.

Once you do that, map out a route to the workplace, using side streets. Try driving it first. Might be a bit longer but less nerve wracking. I would avoid Olympic, Pico, et al as they are very busy most times of the day. Wilshire will have lots of cars.

Post any other questions and we'll help out as needed. Congrats on your new bike! Hope it isn't too foggy down in the beach areas today!

Sheldon