I introduced myself the other day in the introduction forum. Since I'm 58 I guess I should also introduce myself here as well. I think I'll be spending most of my time here.

Brief history, my wife has had many health issues in the last few years. For her 52nd birthday last month she wanted a bike. I live in Austin so we have as many local bike shops here as we do churches. So we went to our neighborhood shop and they were able to fit her with a nice comfort bike which fits her perfectly and is a pleasure for her to ride. (She's had back fusion). While we were there and while they spent 3 hours with her making sure everything was just perfect for her, I was sucked in. I ended up getting a nice Hybrid for myself which they also set up to fit me perfectly. I love the bikes and love the shop!

Anyhow, her bike (Raleigh Venture) is pretty straight forward. Seven speeds with one shifter. My bike (Raleigh Misceo) isn't quite so straight forward. I haven't owned a bicycle in over 45 years and it was a Stingray clone of some sort. Don't remember but it had one speed.

And yes, I've searched and understand bigger and smaller gears and their purpose both front and back. My question though has to do with the numbering on the controls. If I'm in 2 in the front and 5 in the back, then downshift to 4 it seems like it is a higher gear. Most motorized vehicles this would be a lower gear. Is this normal? I didn't know if maybe I am missing something and I can't find where anybody has already asked this question and saving me from the embarassment.

I have to go pick up a couple of kick stands this afternoon and was going to ask the guys at the LBS. But hell, might as well ask here in case someone who is new like me has the same question but is also afraid to ask. Which of course sparks another question, why no kick stands? They can come in handy and these aren't race bikes.

Thanks for the help and especially for the sticky for 50+ newbies. I read every post!