New Here!
 

I am new to this site, but I like riding alot. I don't know how to ride too well- so I am hoping everyone here can share any tips, suggestions and what not. Last year, I got a DUI and lost my license for three years. Now, I am attending AA meetings, and noticed there are alot of recoverees who also ride. Duh! I first tried road riding, but decided I can get more in tune with nature, on a mountain bike. Plus, being in southern California- there are tons of great trail rides here.

Since I stopped alcohol, I am in poor physical shape. I'm 30lbs overweight, and just quit smoking cigarettes, after 22 years of burning cancer sticks. At 43, this is my time to get in shape for the rest of my life. I am tired of abusing my body with tobacco and alcohol, only to to go out and do something stupid as drive. Don't get me wrong- I love driving. I just sold my beloved 2005 Porsche 911 Carrera. But yes, I plan on biking EVERYWHERE a bicycle can take me, for the next three years.

First, I got a 2004 Gary Fisher Zebrano....which was a decent bike, until somebody else wanted it alot more than I did(i.e:stolen). This bike made me realize the importance of high-end equipment. I was almost tempted to get a new bike from Target....but glad I didn't. I cannot stand the idea of constantly fixing a bike, just to get basic reliability from it. Now, I got a 2006 Trek 4900 disk, and I cannot wait to hit the trails with it. My biggest problem with riding is balance. Are there any excercises to practice good riding balance? I think I will be more in control of the bike if I can do a cool trackstand. Ideas?

Another problem I have riding is with hills. I know the best excercise is attained through ascents, but I tend to poop out early into the climb. I hear my bike has good climbing geometry- which is the the main reason why I bought it. If anybody here can help me get started the right way.....I'll be most grateful.

Zach
2006 Trek 4900 Disk

Hello Zach--as you discovered, you are not the only person out there who took up riding for a variety of factors!

The trackstand thing comes with practice, but I think if you do a search for trackstand, and confine the search to the "Road Cycling" forum, you should be able to find a thread or two on that.

As to hills, well, yes, practice doesn't necessarily make perfect, but it does make it easier. As you have quit smoking that will improve your body's capacity to get up those hills, and losing weight makes it easier as well. But it's the practice that will make it easier eventually.

<<<<Note the username.

There's a SoCal forum with a lot of folks who get together for rides--you might want to check them out--they can probably give you a lot of tips!

Welcome to BF!

East Hill

Good on you dilberto, trust me, once you get into MTB'ing properly, It will be one of the most rewarding hobbies that you could have found.
Good luck with your aim for biking, and best luck with it
Regards
G