Hey all, I'm new to biking and Madison. I just finished up college and after 5 years of concentrating on a double major + minor all about computers I find myself a little... ahem... thick.

Picked up a Trek 1500 for fitness and recreation and now have to figure out where in Madison to bike. For the locals I live downtown near James Madison Park (Gorham and N Hamilton) and work near the airport. I plan to start biking through the University campus and on the path around Lake Manona. Any suggestions on where an out of shape newbie should ride? How about good bicycling resources online or in town? I have been to Machinery Row and the Trek Store on the West Side.

On a side note it is 70 and Sunny today. I can't wait to get home and get on my bike!

I'm also looking for a buddy. Drop me a PM if you are willing to put up with someone new and slow.