Newbie from northeast Texas
01-19-19, 01:05 AM
#1
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Newbie from northeast Texas
Hey everyone! I'm fairly new to the bike scene, but recently decided to give commuting by bicycle a go. I'm looking to get in shape (if that's possible with a 3.4 mile round trip commute lol), and since I'm only living 1.7 miles from work, it just doesn't make sense to keep spending the gas money to drive my old truck. I borrowed an old MTN bike from my grandpa today, and I'll be making my maiden voyage in the morning. Wish me luck!
01-19-19, 06:51 AM
#2
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Good for you! Head over to our commuting section for tips.
__________________
Keep the chain tight!
01-19-19, 08:09 AM
#3
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Welcome to Bikeforums. I wish I had been able to bike commute when I worked but 41 miles one way was a little too long. Enjoy the 1.7 miles and take a side trip once in a while.
01-19-19, 08:46 AM
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Welcome to Bike Forums, MDITKIN!
01-20-19, 11:03 PM
#6
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As it turns out, I greatly overestimated my physical ability. I made it .3 miles before i my legs were burning and my chest was on fire (in retrospect, I only quit smoking a few days ago, and I haven't been hiking in 6 months). It was really disheartening, but I'm serious about getting fit and leaving the truck for my wife and 2 children (we only have one vehicle). I'm just going to keep doing a little more each day until I can handle the commute.
01-21-19, 08:24 AM
#7
Newbie
Welcome!
Don't lose heart, you've got the best motivation... stretching yourself for the benefit of your family. Leave yourself plenty of time and take it slow. I can tell you everyone here is behind you! :^)
Don't lose heart, you've got the best motivation... stretching yourself for the benefit of your family. Leave yourself plenty of time and take it slow. I can tell you everyone here is behind you! :^)
01-21-19, 11:49 AM
#9
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As it turns out, I greatly overestimated my physical ability. I made it .3 miles before i my legs were burning and my chest was on fire (in retrospect, I only quit smoking a few days ago, and I haven't been hiking in 6 months). It was really disheartening, but I'm serious about getting fit and leaving the truck for my wife and 2 children (we only have one vehicle). I'm just going to keep doing a little more each day until I can handle the commute.
Your fire to get fit and help your family is inspiring! Keep working hard! You got this!
01-21-19, 04:40 PM
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Welcome. I understand being a former two pack daily smoker. I quit cold, started like you did, ended up doing marathons and triathlons. The key is going slow, don’t push until you get discouraged or burnt out, and enjoy yourself. The long haul counts.
01-22-19, 03:14 PM
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Thanks guys! My dad has an 80s puegeot triathalon that I'm picking up tonight, so maybe that will make my ride easier. It needs tubes/tires, and it has clip pedals that I will have to switch out because the shoes he has wont fit me. I'm not paying anything for the bike though, so I dont mind putting a little bit of $$ into it. Anyone have any experience with these?
