Advice for a beginner...I mean beginner, beginner!

Hi everyone,

I am ready to jump in and make this a reality. However, I am not even a beginner...yet. Like, I don't even have a bike yet.

Any suggestions as to where to purchase a bike? What should a novice be looking for in a bike? I guess any advice anyone could give would be greatly appreciated. I would like to begin on the beginner rides but don't know where to start.

Thanks in advance!

Hi Jill....I'm posting a copy of responses made for another new member cyclists a while back:

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Depends what you want to ride.
A road bike is all about speed and lightness (16-22lbs usually), and skinny, fast tires!
Dragging your 30 lb. mtb with wide knobby wheels is not what you want on long pavement rides. Ken
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Anyway, I appreciate Ken's great response on the types of bikes for what type of cycling. But, I think you were looking for a more specific to this group response.
There are different levels of cyclists in our group. From those riding their mountain bikes to hybrids to road bikes. The best part of this group is having the choice of riding with whatever level you think you feel comfortable with. Just pay attention to the description of the ride. There are cyclists in this group that have mountain bikes, so they stick with the Beginners group. Once you get stronger, you can move up to the Intermediate group....but, a mountain may not work for you then. It will be then that you may start looking at changing to either a Hybrid or a Road bike. I have yet to see anyone with a Cruiser. It all depends on what you feel comfortable with and can afford. Serious cycling is NOT CHEAP....there's road bikes that are just under $1000 up to $10,000. Then there's the accessories (clothes, shoes, pedals, etc, etc). Not trying to scare you away, but serious cycling can be an addiction. Including myself, some of our cyclists started with mountain bikes and evolved to road...with a goal to complete a Century. It all depends on how far YOU want to take it. Don't bother looking at what the other person rides. Just look at only what you are able to do and your goal of what you want to do in the future. All the best. Sydnie
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In order for you to know what works best for you is to first decide what your goals are....then look at your budget. I think one of our members that I road with last Sat is selling a new bike. You MUST get fitted for a bike first, which most bike shops do. Some let you test ride a bike. Except for REI, all bike shops have a no return policy. My personal suggestion is to window shop. It's late and I will add my experiences in finally getting to my current bike tomorrow.

Hi,..I am Rocky and am the owner of Southwest Bikes on Teneya and Azure,..I will be happy to help you select the correct bike for you. I am personally there on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. If you would like a fitting, I can help you there as well. Hope to see you on the road soon!,...Rocky

Rocky, Of course!!! My bad, I forgot about your shop. Rocky is great and his shop is beautiful. You'd be in great hands. Sydnie

Thank you so much for the advice! I am on my way...Rocky, I will be seeing you shortly.

Thanks again really,
Jill