|
Hi! ...(waves nervously)...
I'm in NYC, bought my used Trek 710 hybrid last month but haven't had a chance to ride it until yesterday. Just some one background info-I used to ride my bike as a kid every day for years. Up until yesterday, I hadn't gotten on a bike in a good 25-30 years but I figured "how hard can it be? Just like riding a bicycle!" Wink wink. Good heavens, I looked like trained bear on a bike! I don't know if it was nerves from learning how to switch gears, or the constant fear of riding on NYC streets, or that I just wasn't comfortable on he bike (I think the seat still needs to be lowered, but it's down as far as I can get it anyway). My question is-did anyone else have this problem? |
Welcome. Glad to have you. You can ask in the General forum and maybe get some tips on fit. |
Yes. I hadn't been on a bike for 25 years until yesterday. I pulled my old bike out of moth balls, cleaned it up, performed some routine maintenance, and lube, filled the tires and went. I don't have to contend with city traffic, but was a bit shaky at first, but no problems. My biggest discovery was how out of shape I am, especially my wind. Hills were a KILLER. I went out today again, after a few minor adjustments, and it was much better. I had a blast. Things will come together for you, just keep at it. You may want to take a drive with your bike in the car to a less populated location to get your bearings a bit.
|
Hi and welcome to Bike Forums!! Yes, I think that a lot of us who had large gaps between riding (and that's a LOT of us who have not ridden since being a kid) have these kinds of issues. Bikes have changed quite a bit. It won't be too long until your confidence comes back and you feel good on it. Good luck!
|
Welcome to Bike Forums. Big parking lots are a nice place to practice riding, as well. |
I also faced the same problem but it didn't take too much time to get back my confidence. After practicing in big open place I get it back.
|
Hi and welcome,Carolyn! Unfortunately if your seat still needs to be lowered more and it's bottomed out, your bike may be too big for you. Rule of thumb for me for saddle height is when you're on the lowest point of your downstroke in pedaling ,you should have a slight bend in your knees and not totally locked/extended. I'm sure you'll get more tips here.
|
Thank so for the suggestions everybody! I'm planning on taking the bike to a large park to get my bearings. It was silly of me to think I could easily ride city streets. |
Yes! I'm in the same boat as you...took 25 years off.... just like riding a bike...not.
I also have a Trek 710, good choice. Welcome to the site John |
Thanks, John! Glad it's not only me! |
Welcome to Bike Forums, Carolynjr2! You'd be surprised how many of us are out there... :)
|
Howdy and welcome aboard!
I volunteer with Bike NY. They offer many classes. One of them is for riders trying to get more comfrotable riding on city streets. Price is very reasonable for NYC; free :) https://www.bike.nyc/education/class...ctice-session/ |
Welcome. Starting out in the park is a good idea. I wouldn’t worry about switching gears until you are comfortable pedaling. Just get the bike in an easy gear and go until your confidence up. |
Welcome
|
I was looking at Bike NYC! I will probably sign up soon!
|
| All times are GMT -6. The time now is 02:10 AM. |
Copyright © 2026 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Use of this site indicates your consent to the Terms of Use.