I have the same bike. LOL.

I think what's important is to find a gear that won't leave you injured or in pain. As a beginner, I hurt my knees several times and foot trying to ride in a gear that was too high for my body. Everyone is not the same and some people can ride in higher gears others can't. You'll find out real fast the next day if your knees are hurting, more often than not it's becuase of poor fit and high gear selection. Whatever the case, if it hurt, stop and recover. Do not think more riding will cure the pain.