So i've been commuting for a while and have dabbled with a road bike before, but a month ago, after over a year of test riding bikes, I finally bought a Tarmac. Before we get into a discussion about what bike I bought, I got a good deal on it from a shop that I really wanted to support. The frame and geometry fit me well. I could have gone with a more relaxed bike as I don't really need the racing geometry, but the Tarmac is just more fun to ride! I could have gone with a cheaper, less awesome bike as well, but I just got a pomotion and wanted to treat myself.

So I've been riding it 16 miles round trip to work and back, with a lot of small hills, and have done a few 20-30 mile rides. Yesterday I went out for about 50 miles around Surrey. Total elevation gain was about 1500ft and my average pace was just over 16 mph. That includes waiting at stoplights for the first and last 6 miles of the ride.

I had some lower back pain set in before half way, but I think thy was just because i've dropped the handlebars too low. Will put a spacer back in before next ride and should be OK. Butt started getting tired over the last few miles, as did my wrists. Other than that I felt pretty good. Not even that sore today with the exception of my knee, which always hurts a little because of nerve damage.

So, as a beginner, are there any recommendatuons or things to learn first? I am a very experienced climber and I can think of about a dozen things I try to tell beginners to make their lives easier.

In case it matters, I am 29 and in pretty good shape as I climb a lot and used to run a lot until my knee problem started. As long as I warm up properly and stretch after, cycling doesn't bother it.

Thanks!