Originally Posted by
willowofoak
That said, I decided to learn how to ride a bike at the lovely age of 27. I do wonder what is the best bike type to get as a beginner who is very much of a beginner in every sense of the word. I aim for something casual, something I could ride to town and such. Maybe a cruiser. I do very much like the look of a beach cruiser.
I am 5'6", if that matters. And I am not perfect with my own balance, so does that mean I should get a lighter bike? Wider tires?
I taught my 30 year old GF in less than one hour - no falls or hiccups.
Just get a bike and lower the saddle - enough that your feet can reach the ground while you're sitting in the saddle.(not too low but low enough where you can tiptoe with both feet while sitting.)
Then simply kick with your feet and try to balance and ride. Don't put your feet on pedals, but keep both of them hanging in the air. Keep doing this until you can go straight without tipping over. If you tip over to one side, simply put your foot down on that side so you don't fall.
Then practice a little turning. This shouldn't take that long to get to this step.
When you get a little more comfortable going straight (without having to put foot on ground,) try putting feet on pedals and pedal. This is still with the seat low. Voila - you are riding a bike.
Practice this a little bit, then when you are more comfortable, you can raise the seat to a proper height.
It's really super easy.