New to road biking and it feels so awkward!?

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sassafrass

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I recently bought a new road bike as opposed to the mountain bike that I currently have. I even went out and bought bike clips. But trying to ride it feels like I'm learning to ride a bike completely from scratch again. All i do is fall and I'm getting quite frustrated! I feel like my bike is too big but its the perfect length and the bike tech made the seat my exact height. Is it normal to feel like the bike is too big, and does everyone have a tough time with getting use to bike clips too??
 
They're very, very different feeling rides. If you've become accustomed to a mountain bike, it would be like learing to ride again on a road bike. It should feel bigger than a mountain bike does under you because you want to be stretched out and more aerodynamic in the cockpit, whereas you're more concerned about being able to manipulate the bike under you with a mountain bike. If the shop checked you out and sized the bike to you, I dont think there's anything wrong with the size, its just a whole new riding position and different feel that you'll have to get used to.

As for the pedals, do you mean clips and straps or clipless pedals? I'm guessing clipless. I tried for about a year and a half to get to the point where I was as comfortable riding them as I am on flats and it just never happened. I finally gave it up about two months ago, I just dont like 'em. So... Yes, everyone has a bit of a tough time learning to use them. Some (like me) obviously more than others.

You may want to throw a set of flat pedals on your bike as you get used to the ride and then put the clipless back on so you arent learning both new things at once. Probably safer while you're still getting used to things. Good luck.

EDIT-- Dont let this happen to you...
http://www.pinkbike.com/news/rachel-atherton-car-accident-2009.html
 
Road bikes are different! Depending on how your mountain bike felt, that can influence how you feel on the road bike. If your bike shop did a good fitting for the bike, trust them and you will get used to the feel. I was scared to death for a week or so when I got my first road bike. Getting used to the pedals takes some training too.

As far as the pedals, don't go out riding until you feel more comfortable with them. To help you with that, you can do a couple things: Have someone strong help hold you upright on the bike and, without moving, practice getting in and out of the pedals. Once you get the idea, shift to a very easy gear and practice starting and stopping, getting in and out of your pedals on some grass in a park or somewhere. That way, if you fall, you will be less likely to hurt yourself or damage your bike as you are on the grass. One thing that is hard to train yourself to do and something that I see as a common mistake is that you have to learn to take your shoe OUT of the pedal BEFORE you stop. Get your foot free well before you stop.
 
Some people do have the same problem as you. All you need to do is practice to get used to it. The faster you pedal the more straight your become. I fell over once and im sure your agree with me, it is very embarrassing and frustrated.

Hope this helps.
 
Some people do have the same problem as you. All you need to do is practice to get used to it. The faster you pedal the more straight your become. I fell over once and im sure your agree with me, it is very embarrassing and frustrated.

Hope this helps.
 
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