I just bought a bike and will pick it up next weekend.

I am 52 and have been a couch slug - ok desk chair slug, for the past 3 years. Before that I was a window cleaner for 3 years and was toned and 20lbs lighter.

I have NO clue how far is reasonable to go on my first ride.

I know I will be saddle sore for sure _ buying bike shorts before then... but I have no idea if the first few times out I should shoot for 3 miles, 7 miles, 10 - more ???

Any one have a suggestion? I know everyone is different, but I really have no clue if 3 miles is a blip that is just too short to bother with or if 10 miles is kinda long or what...

I have no clue what my speed will be, aside from pretty slow... bought a Lotus Excelle and boy are those tires skinny... I was a bit wobbly on the test ride and nervous about turning, so my first few rides I want to focus on just becoming one with the Lotus and getting solid on the basics... and comfortable in handling it.

I want to have a set distance, so that I don't flashback to being 13 on my brand new 10 speed and get confused and ride too far pumped on youthful memories and then be destroyed by it when I have to make the return and live through the next few days.

Thanks much for any tips on the first 5 or so rides on the pretty bike!