Don't try to learn to bike by biking someplace. Nice lazy circles in a parking lot or, better yet, a nice flat field. Even a trip to the end of the block and back is mildly dangerous until you've completely solved the balance problem.
Speaking of the balance problem -- this WILL vary from bike to bike. They build these things for fitness types; some are still OK for people with fuller figures, some aren't. Price seems to figure into this.
Don't waste a lot of money on accessories. Any major change you make to the bike, like panniers or a trailer, will alter its handling greatly.
Finally, ask Caroline. She's a skinny one but she bikes everywhere and probably knows much more about the subject than me.
no subject
Date: 2008-07-15 03:18 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2008-07-15 03:19 am (UTC)no subject
Date: 2008-07-15 03:35 am (UTC)Don't try to learn to bike by biking someplace. Nice lazy circles in a parking lot or, better yet, a nice flat field. Even a trip to the end of the block and back is mildly dangerous until you've completely solved the balance problem.
Speaking of the balance problem -- this WILL vary from bike to bike. They build these things for fitness types; some are still OK for people with fuller figures, some aren't. Price seems to figure into this.
Don't waste a lot of money on accessories. Any major change you make to the bike, like panniers or a trailer, will alter its handling greatly.
Finally, ask Caroline. She's a skinny one but she bikes everywhere and probably knows much more about the subject than me.