SpudPuppy

Howdy all,

I'm male, 36, and a long time cyclist. I've been mountain biking casually for 17 years or so. I like all sorts of trails, but prefer the challenging ones, both physically and technically. My current mountain bike is a Seven Duo.

I'm also about ready to take delivery on my first road bike; it's a Seven Alaris. The reason I signed up to meet all of you is to gain wisdom (and learn the secret handshake for the roadie club). I'm fit and a strong rider, but have no experience with road or pack riding. I'm interested in hearing suggestions on how to get started on the road, and, just maybe, if it doesn't remain quite so intimidating, how to get started racing.

I live in Sammamish, in Washington State, which is just east of Seattle. Unfortunately, my wife doesn't ride, but my oldest daughter is about ready to lose her training wheels.

My profession is software and computer graphics for video and computer games. Up until the last couple of years, I allowed work to dominate my time, but I'm repairing that oversight with determination and plenty of time in the saddle.

I've just recently discovered this community, and I'm very impressed. Not only with how useful the quality information is, but also with so many candid and helpful attitudes and with the polite and respectful discussion of controversial subjects.
I'm honored to become a member.

-SpudPuppy

DnvrFox

Well, you certainly started out with a choice bike -a Seven. Wow.

Lots of folks here from your area. 3 of them just did the STP ride.

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...&highlight=STP

Also, just about everyone (except me and a few others) are computer/engineer types. See:

https://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...threadid=31633

My age is the reverse of yours.

Anyway, welcome. Sounds to me like it won't be long before you are doing the Triple By Pass and the Markleeville Death Ride along with the Hotter than Hell Hundred.

slotibartfast

Congrats on the new bike and welcome to the forums.. Always nice to have another member from the upper left hand corner of the country.

SpudPuppy

Thanks for the welcome. I think it's a tad early for me to be thinking about 200 milers until I get used to the road.

I think I need to go gear shopping - I'm not certain, but I suspect it's a serious faux paux to road ride with baggy shorts.