rocdoc

Talk about a newbie. How's this? I am 33 years old, and about 90 minutes ago I taught myself to ride a bike. Yes, you read correctly. I have never owned, nor been on a bike before. Today my wife and I bought bikes at the local Performance Bike shop (I like to support the local economy, I'm good that way...) - she has been riding all her life, but not recently. I walked mine home, waited for it to get dark and the kids in the neighborhood to go to bed, and went to the tennis court in our complex where I went from unable to balance on it to riding in ~15 min. Then took a couple of clumsy tours of the neighborhood. Got comfortable after 30 more minutes, I feel I am ready to go anywhere now. I'm a rider, mama!!!
Yep. Figured there might be others in my situation, too embarrassed to come out - yes, that's it, I am out of the closet baby! Needless to say, I AM LOVING IT!! Plan to hit the trails in the Maryland - DC area, and maybe start riding to work, and laugh at the gas prices.
Anyone have any recommendations for trails? Also, what do you think of my bike choice? I got the cheapo one, of course, remember, I didn't even know how to ride?! I bought a GT Timberline. $299. Man at the store (he had an apron, must have known what he was talking about...) said it would do well on the trails. Now I am wondering if I shouldn't have gone for more suspensions for the unpaved trails. And maybe a lighter one, this bike is a heavy monster! Ah well, I will ride it into the ground and then think about upgrading.
There. I am out and loving it.
Cheers. Enjoy the scenery while you ride.

East Hill

Hi rocdoc, nah, the full suspension is overkill unless you are planning on doing some serious mountain biking. On simple unpaved trails you should be fine.

If you are looking to upgrade, you could try looking for a decent older used bike, perhaps something from CL?

Thank you for sharing your story of success and bravery, and continued good luck when you eventually discover the joy of clipless pedals .

Welcome to BF, and feel free to PM me with any questions !

East Hill
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