1. B.S. to everybody who says take it easy. Ride as often and as far as you can stand it.
2. Have fun while you are doing it.
3. Do not ever decide not to ride because the weather forecast sucks.
4. Buy the best bike you can afford right away, you'll never be sorry you did.
5. Wear a helmet.
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It's all downhill from here. Except the parts that are uphill.