I'm new to road cycling and have discovered how much more you can feel the road's imperfections. Should I worry about the rims getting bent? What are your tips when it comes to cracked/bumpy roads at times?

Thanks everyone!

Over joints between some of the local MUP's bridges or potholes, I try to pop the front wheel over it just to avoid the jarring impact.

Keep your tires properly inflated, around 110 psi. This will help prevent pinch flats and bottoming out the rim. If you really slam a pothole, you can bend the rim. Most small cracks & bumps are no big deal.

Look ahead to avoid big holes, and generally ride with supple body posture. As you ride more, you will get better at spotting road imperfections and either avoiding them or relaxing over them. If really rough, unavoidable pavement, you generally balance evenly on your pedals and handlebars, with butt off the saddle. Relax, relax, relax. Helps if you've ridden a mtn bike. Have a good time riding.

I'm coming from a mtn bike so I was a bit shocked. I'm sure I will learn to sit up some while riding over the unavoidable areas. Thanks.

Excellent advice for a newbee.

At last, a post that doesn't slam other members and isn't filled with neurotic self abusing insecurities about drivel.

If you're worried about the wheels get a cheap set of wheels for winter riding.
Or see if you can get a good deal on a winter beater bike.

the only problem in the northeast is a lot of the big holes are filled with water from runoff and you don't realize they're big holes until you hit one at 20+mph.
That being said, over time you do get better at spotting and avoiding road hazards.

Relax. Keep your weight on your pedals. If you're sitting on the saddle, you're not using your legs as shock absorbers, and the saddle will just hammer your arse.

Look up "Paris-Roubaix" or any number of pro road races that take place on terrible cobbles. Ordinary road imperfections, even ones that will jarr your body a bit, are unlikely to cause damage to your bike.

I couldn't imagine riding on those cobble roads!!

Ahhh.. ya.. because road imperfections are specific to the winter months only..... = D

here in the northeast we've got stuff called "frost heaves," which pretty much are specific to the winter months only. they turn roads into moguls and settle down once it thaws.

Act as if every puddle of water hides a pot hole big enough to go to china. Lift of the seat if something looks nasty up ahead. And never, ever go over bad stuff with your hands on the hoods. I learned this lesson by almost eating it a number of times. You would be shocked at how easily a large bump can throw the front of the bike away from your hands if they are on the hoods.