Introductions - James in Los Angeles

My name is James. As I posted in the SoCal forum, I own a bike, but not a proper road bicycle. I work and live in West LA so I frequent San Vicente Blvd on my Rivendell. I am almost ready to buy a carbon fiber road bike. Lycra and clipless pedals make me nervous, but they are the norm for road cycling. I recognize that I am about to spend my hard-earned money on new clothes, equipment and shoes. Does anyone look good in Lycra? I have many questions so I will start searching the newbie threads.

I'll have you know that I own a Specialized road bike and I covet a Rivendell. :)

Lycra is needed if you ride longer distances and/or are bothered by chafing and wind resistance. Clipless pedals are a personal preference.

And I look good in lycra, but I'm female. :D

Oh, and welcome to the forum!

Welcome to the forums James! I prefer clipless pedals myself. I used to ride in just shorts, mountain bikes, but I found the lycra with chamois pad make the ride much more pleasurable. Do I look good in them, no, but I'm not out to impress and I have no discomfort after the ride from chafing.

Thank you for the welcome. I understand the need for Lycra and clipless pedals. Those two equipment choices are simply new to me and often foreign to Rivendell owners.