new to cycling

Originally Posted by bikengrl

hi cindy,
I sent you a host of info but it didn't go thru I'll shorten it down. get this book it will answer every question i've seen you post. "The Mountain Bike Book" by Steve Worland published by MBI Publishers. It will teach you the lingo, the bike types and parts and the clothing and many trail saftey and riding techniques, etc.
I'm a 46 year old woman and have been cycling since 95. I do mtn and road riding i have a road bike also. I also have back and neck problems. Not like the past though, cycling all but cured it. You don't need any of the bikes mentioned. You can get an upright position on a mtn bike by stem length and handlbar spacers. The bike store will explain these. All bikes use them. Do not get a hybrid if you intend to ride rough trails. My first bike was a hybrid and the first time i rode off road it was horrible. The tires are too narrow and too slick. I bogged down and had to work twice as hard and everyone left me behind. I sold it immediatley and up graded to a real mtn. bike. You'll want a front shock. It will come with one. And for your back i recommend a suspension seat post it is wonderful. It has helped me 100% I won't ride without it. They range from 98.00 to 150.00. They are called "Thud Busters" or Rock Shox brand. The bike store will have them or can order them. You sound tall don't be tricked into getting a women's specific bike. With your reach length and height i don't think it will benefit you any. The shorts are a must, no underwear with them or they won't work. Your rear will hurt, you will experiment with seat types and positions until you get the one you like. I did. The book I mentioned will answer all this and more. Your live in an area I'd die for to ride in. go take advantage of it. There are clubs and they love new people. /cyclist are great folks. they will pass on alot of knowledge. You'll find people of all levels of riding abilities too. The bike stores will let you know about some people and group rides. I'm a bike junky now and proud of it. Go get um girl and here's my email I'd love to hear about your rides and progress.
Connie

Originally Posted by CindySue48

I got a Specialised Crossroads.

Originally Posted by RickF

I road 38 miles around Orange County, NC on Saturday on my 2004 Specialized Crossroads Elite. It is a very nice beginner's bike. It is not fast, but it is comfortable.

Originally Posted by CindySue48

Well, I finally got my bike!

Picked it up today, bought it at the closest bike store, about 8miles away. I got a Specialised Crossroads. It's not the women's bike, but it does seem like an excellent fit. I also checked out what they had for Trek bikes, but none in my price range were the right size. Got the helmet, lock, and water bottle too!

I rode around in my yard for a few minutes before heading out to the street. It's amazing....but I guess you don't ever forget how to ride! lol

Thanks to all for your help! It was nice going back to the store with some knowlege of how the bike should fit! The sales woman was much nicer and much more helpful than the guy I ran into first time in this shop.