I'm looking for a bike!

Last year, my boyfriend and I ran our first half marathon and for me, it was quite an accomplishment! We trained for about two and a half months, which allowed me to turn in a respectable time (at least by my standards), and finished without needing too much recovery time. We're thinking about doing another one this year, but are still unsure. Training is really time consuming and tough on the legs and knees. And let's face it, I'm getting O-L-D!!!!

As an alternative to running, we're looking into cycling! My boyfriend already has two bikes and was an avid cyclist before. For me, I just started shopping around --- my last bike was a so called "ten speed" when I was in ninth grade. Who knew how complicated bikes are now!?! Ultegra and 105s! Carbon frame or carbon fork! Thick tires, skinny tires! Disc brakes?? Felt! Giant! Cannondale! Specialized! Novarra! K2! Scott! Where is a girl to start?!?

Who knew that a "cool" bike has no kickstand? Who knew it's not cool to have handbrakes at the top of the handlebar? Who knew pedals are sold separately? Who knew you actually have to hop off your seat when you stop to balance yourself? Who knew you actually have to be pedalling to shift gears??!? There's so much to think about... (and hey, do you HAVE to wear a helmet?)

Well, we're going to shop around some more over the next few weeks... I just hope I find one that comes in a cool color!

Stay tuned....