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Original poster

Newbie - Riding a bike

30 replies

namechanger563 · 02/07/2023 10:00

Not proper cycling, just riding a bike! It's been 30 years or more since I rode a bike and I did it for the first time yesterday.

I was quite wobbly but surprised with how quickly I picked it up again.

I'm helping DS learn his route to high school for September, so I'm not looking to become a 'proper cyclist'.

I need tips. My bum is so sore today, and I wanted to give it another go. Should I wait?

We made it about 1/3 of the way yesterday and I wanted to build up to maybe half, but I don't want to make my bum worse. Grin TIA

OP posts:
Peony654 · 04/07/2023 08:01

But you are a cyclist! Well done. The padded seat should help, and you’ll quickly get used to it. Maybe give it a day to try again.

pendleflyer · 04/07/2023 07:58

where are you @namechanger563

Some of the london boroughs do cycling lessons to develop confidence/safety awareness riding with traffic, which is important.

you changed your name for a cycling post? Have no shame!

lljkk · 03/07/2023 19:18

How far will he cycle each way?

Original poster
namechanger563 · 02/07/2023 13:16

@ToBeOrNotToBee thank you for your reply. I did really enjoy the ride and thought how lovely it would be by myself with some headphones and a good playlist.

How long should I leave my bum to recover before I try again? It hurts on the inside of my things/bum area, if that makes sense. I think the seat is the right height. I've ordered a padded seat that will arrive tomorrow.

OP posts:
ToBeOrNotToBee · 02/07/2023 10:07

That was me 6 years ago. I now have 2 bikes in my hallway and another in my store room 🙃

I also have a wardrobe full of lycra and a bank balance that cries.

It's seriously addictive and makes you feel like a kid again.

Make sure your saddle is set at the right height for your legs and you're not over extending your shoulders. You want your knees only slightly bent when your pedal is at the lowest to the ground and your elbows only slightly crooked when on the handlebars.

Your bum will be sore for the first few rides as your sit bones aren't used to having your torse weight completely on them. This is completely normal, and rapidly improves with more saddle time.

Don't make the assumption that a cushy saddle makes it better, it doesn't.

Have fun, and enjoy the ride.