MissBumble - I started off in spin classes only, Les Mills to be exact. I think its what allowed me to transition to the bike so much easier.. My first ride outside was 20 something miles i believe. i'm 365ish but i was around 420 something when i got my bike (450 when i started working out). I've completed 2 centuries and several metrics. I started april of last year ... spin classes are how i got invited to ride with my riding buddies. Spin away! i think it really helps!