1st bike ride with new mountain bike

I tried this myself, wanting to get in shape as well, about 6 months ago. Unfortunately I ended up finding out that it's no fun, and quite dangerous for someone legally blind like me, to be riding a bike in an area with not enough sidewalks. I wasn't comfortable enough, so I ended up returning the bike and getting a stationary recumbent exercise bike instead.



Even though you already have a bike, I highly recommend one of those classic bikes with the large seats, usually they're called beach cruisers. The few days I had mine, it was an absolute treat to ride, very smooth, very comfortable, no fancy pancy gears and gizmos and whathaveyou's. Just a simple, elegant, fun bike.



In fact, here's a picture of it I took before I returned it (relunctantly -- I hope my eyesight clears up a bit so I can enjoy bike riding again.)



http://flickr.com/photos/mattjb/1784123982/



In fact, you should check out the entire Electra line-up of bikes. They all reek of quality craftmanship. http://www.electrabike.com/



Also, call around your local bike shops and ask if they give a lesson on bike safety and tips you should know about. While they'll try to peddle a lame helmet for you to wear, they do give you very helpful instructions and tips that'll make your bike-riding experience far more enjoyable than if you didn't. It's usually a 30-minute to an hour long, but well worth the time.



If you keep riding, you'll quickly laugh at how 9 miles once bothered you. Trust me, you'll soon be breezing 20 miles once your body gets its stamina back.

I definitely need to stop riding on the shoulder that's for sure. I might start planning out the routes to avoid doing that. Part of the thing that makes it "fun" for me is not knowing where I'm going though. Seems like everything in life is so planned anymore, it is nice to just get on the bike and ride. Which reminds me, I think I may be getting a motorcycle. Now THAT would be fun. :-)



Sweet bike! And Electrabike has some sweet looking rides. A few years back I found some old classic schwinns and fixed them up for us to ride. That was a lot of fun but I think we got rid of them in a move somewhere. These beach cruisers are perfect for riding around the neighborhood. I can see getting one of these to ride along side my son when he's old enough to bike. Good call.



I hope your last statement is true, I had to take this morning off because my legs would start burning even just walking up the stairs!!