Hey there TohTruck!
I've got an idea that addresses your geared bike problem. Just go to
www.bikerentalcentralpark.com and make reservations for some a.m. rental for a couple of hours. That would be two hours of assisted learning. That's two whole hours of practice! Possibly have one of your friends accompany you with their own bike in tow. You could then, learn by trial and error, how to shift gears. That's what most people do, anyway! Another thing you might want to try, would be to find a friend or an associate who has a 3 speed or a 5 speed. Practice on bikes with lower speeds first, then jump on the higher geared bikes.
After some independent practice, then set up your gear-shifting appointment with EMS. You'll be better able to soak it all in by then! It's very important to learn the basics of how to shift gears. It's so simple, that once you catch on to it, you'll think, "Why in the world did that seem so complicated!". I know, because I once had the same problem in my youth!
It's been a while since I've ridden a bike (aside from the test rides which barely count). Although I used to work as a delivery boy, I always still get a bit nervous riding on the street with cars and stuff. Likewise, since it's been a while, I'm going to be nervous and not quite as sharp getting back out there.
At first, riding in the street seems to be a bit daunting. However, once you've gotten out there a few times, it's a cinch!
So TohTruck, do your have a driver's license?
You have to be aware of all the driving regulations, street, and traffic signs, if you're going to ride safely. Make certain that you either review or study the traffic and driving rules, regulations, and laws of New York, before venturing out onto any street.
Practice riding the sparsely populated suburban streets of New York, before attempting to take on the city. Actually sit down and plan with someone who has a driver's license, as to which routes to take and approximately how long it will take to traverse these routes. Then set out to execute your plan. Do this several times, gradually working your way towards the city with each trek, until you feel comfortable actually riding within the city. It might take awhile to really feel comfortable, but in time you will feel more comfortable.
Actually, I still feel a little nervous at times when traffic is heavy and people are driving wrecklessly to get to their destinations. I could only imagine how crazy New York must be. I've heard so many very awful things!
I could possibly buy the Novara Buzz One now, use it to get around and get acclimated into this whole cycling thing. Along with that, I'll be riding on the street and hopefully be getting comfortable and used to riding on the street.
My advice, is to purchase that which is going to make you happy! There's no need to make a knee-jerk purchase out of frustration or any psycho-social pressure.
By then maybe I will feel the need or have a better understanding of what I might need in a new bike with gears. Likewise, N+1. I'll get my geared bike later on when I know what the heck I am doing, feel comfortable on the street, maybe know some mechanics who can hook me up or better yet have an understanding of how to fix and maintain bikes myself (I won't feel apprehensive about not knowing how to adjust things and maintain things like I do right now).
Yes TohTruck, you could settle for the Buzz One right now. If that's really what's in your heart, then do it! It will simplify things for certain. You could slowly learn mechanics on the fixie. You could become more acclimated to street-riding, getting exercise, and learning more about your likes and dislikes about various aspects of cycling.
Of course everything I just mentioned pretty much sums up what everyone on this forum has already been telling me. But it rationalizes getting the Buzz One (an inexpensive single speed with a good warranty) right now over some of the more expensive bikes and the geared bike(s) I've been looking at.
If you feel that the Buzz One purchase will bring you more peace and happiness, then perhaps that's the way to go...
Something I wanted to ask you guys about safety that might rationalize getting the Jamis Coda or another geared bike. Riding fast (maybe more capable on a geared bike) and keeping up with traffic when you are an inexperienced cyclist, is that safer than riding at a more relaxed pace on a slower bike and letting
traffic pass you? Or maybe just in general, how does that work for you guys? Do you feel it's safer to go fast with traffic or a bit slower and let traffic pass you?
TohTruck, riding fast and keeping up with traffic, is for an experienced cyclist. For beginners, my advice, is to take it slow and easy. Keep to the right of traffic. Obey all traffic safety laws. Know the traffic signs. Keep a safe distance away from all moving vehicles. Watch for car doors opening, unexpectedly!
Of course, when I say "slow and easy". Riding too slow can be almost as dangerous as riding too fast when other cyclists are riding behind you and are force to pass you. They will pass you on your left. If they're polite, they will shout out, "On your left!". That will be your cue not to veer towards your left, while they're passing.
Make certain that you have a working bell, a helmet, and a lock!
- Slim
