Finally starting to cycle

[mickle]

Look into adult cycle training from your local authority. Or look up 'Bikeability'. It's often free, or you may find a private cycle trainer locally. The last time i looked into it the going rate was £20 ph.

I trained as a Bikeabilty instructor 20 years ago. Even as a commited cyclist who'd ridden for years in various cities (and thought he knew it all!) it really helped my safety and confidence on the road. Its brilliant. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

 

[brommieinkorea]

3-5 km? Well, if you get a flat I will be easy enough to walk home.

 

[PaulSB]

I don't think there's any evidence cycling has become more dangerous over recent decades.

Quite the opposite AFAICT

View attachment 799480



https://www.gov.uk/government/stati...tsheet-2023#casualty-rates-per-mile-travelled

I would agree and overall I feel the majority of drivers have a better attitude towards than say 5 - 10 years ago. There will always be aggressive d*******s.

I should add I don't ride in cities and have recently made one slight change in my cycling routines. The first time in 50 years. A part of my route to our regular meet point has become so busy that I've rerouted to avoid it adding three miles to the journey. To my surprise it's only three minutes longer, one set of lights against six! When I return if I choose to use my old route, there are few pedestrians, I jump on cycle paths and/or pavements. This is for a +/- 3 mile stretch of a 5½ route that is now so busy it's too unpleasant to ride. Not so much dangerous as uncomfortable, if you get my drift.

 

[Vantage]

Regarding saddle height...
Sit on the saddle. Raise it's height until there is a slight bend in your knees when your foot is at the bottom of the pedal stroke. You'll adjust this a bit at a time till it feels right. Very few...if anyone, gets this right first time.
You'll have more than sore knees as the miles increase. It's perfectly natural. Just your body getting used to working in positions it isn't used to. They aches and pain will disappear fairly quickly...unless you fall off alot
When riding, keep about 3 feet/1 metre away from the kerb. Initially, keep your rides to your local streets and quiet road until you get used to the bike.
Enjoy it!