Good work. Don't worry about not being able to keep up. You will get stronger because there is no way to shift to an easier gear when the going gets tough. The SAID principle, 'specific adaptation to imposed demands' or something like that. You increase the demands and your body adapts, aka getting stronger! Then, the next time you get on your geared bike you will kick some serious butt.
Originally Posted by sm266
Thanks for the encouragement guys. I think I'm gonna take the plunge and go shopping. After all, it's my $$$. Thanks for the encouragement. I'll be back asking newbie ss questions, I'm sure.