Hi everyone, my names is James. I just started biking recreationally a few months ago on a Walmart mountain bike(which I found out is much more difficult than on a road bike). I just recently purchased an entry level Schwinn drop bar road bike which is working out much better for me, I didn't want to spend a ton on my first bike to make sure it was something I would stick with and since my ability is still limited and a top notch bike would be somewhat wasted on me. Since I just started this I'm still doing relatively short rides, typically anywhere from 20-40 miles but my stamina and speed are steadily increasing, it's quite addicting. I look forward to learning more from all the veterans as I go and will probably participate in some of the local rides etc.

Welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard, amazing what slightly different geometry and different wheels does no?

Thanks!

Absolutely, plus the seat on the mountain bike had a big spring under it(like 1" by 5") so I think I was losing some of the energy I was expending on each pedal through that spring. The new road bike weighs in at nearly half of the old mountain bike at 24lbs and 46lbs respectively, I'd imagine that has to be a contributing fact as well, no?

Weight is a major factor yes, and suspension is always a speed sacrifice in the name of comfort! BTW I just took one of mountain bikes and single speeded it, from 30+ lbs to 23 in one day.