New Member: Where To Begin?

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by tristan
First of all, hello to everyone! I am 30 yr old father-husband, ex-couch potatoe and I own a Gary Fischer mountain bike [MAMBO.] I joined up here to get tips on cross training, fitness and cycling.

I hope to learn a few things about how to corretly ride a bike. For example, when to use the seat and when not to, as well as, some proper technique and pacing.

I'm guessing my Mambo bike is not really the correct bike for cycling but it's a start. I do not intend to go "pro" just get into shape and learn to love the burn.

Well, off to work. Everyone have a great day!

😄

Welcome to the forums. To start with just peruse all the forums and read the threads that look interesting. You'll find input from recreational riders, commuters, coaches, racers and everyone inbetween (some with very passionate opinions).

As long as your bike has pedals and wheels then it is the correct bike for cycling. Once you determine what your goals are and what you want to get out of cycling then you can decide on what type of bike best fits your needs.

Getting off that couch is a great start.

Matt

Great advice Matt. Thank you!!

The old saying "run what ya brung" is still a good one, so ride what you've got available.
Get some road tires for it, or you being in Wisconsin also perhaps get some studded winter tires. Real fun to be out riding around on snowy streets on mellow nights with those. I picked up a set of studded tires from that big multi-store out in Madison (Budget Bikes? They have a used bike store, a parts store, a recumbent and roadie store, a MTB store, and probably more.) I'm over here north of Milwaukee a bit and am just now starting to get back on the pedals and planning/training for a fresh start next spring/summer. The icebike.com (or whatever the current URL is for it) is fun to rummage around on.

Active is better than inactive, the rest will come with practice.

Thanks Treebound. Yeah, that's a great idea about the studded tires! Madison, WI is like China except the people are taller!! Went to the Farmer's market there a couple of weeks ago and I think I may have seen a couple of the bike stores you mentioned. Thanks for the great advice as well. We've got tickets to see Dennis De Young in November at the Milwaukee Theatre. Ex-front man for Styx if you didn't know already. He will be playing with the Chicago Children's Choir so I do not know if he will cover Mr. Roboto ;-) Stay Warm!! -Tristan-