I don't hate my bike, I love her, she's way better of a bike than I am a rider (I have to say that in case she gets her feelings hurt.)
But I swear, every time I ride something else stupid goes wrong that's usually operator error. Today, it was riding with my brake rubbing for three miles then my quick release lever fell off my front wheel. Two days ago, I rode with my back wheel loose. I just keep doing scatterbrained, beginner stuff and it's so frustrating. I just want it to be like running where it's putting on my shoes and going.
I actually called the hubs mid ride today and cried and told him I didn't want to ride anymore. He rationally reminded me that I am a beginner and not Mark Cavendish and therefore, it's going to just take time.
Please tell me he's right and that if I just keep riding, I'll just keep getting more comfortable on the bike and all the mechanical stuff won't be as scary and that eventually, it will be just as second nature as going out for a run is.
Re: I think I hate cycling
Hang in there!
I personally do not care for cycling but DH loves it and from watching him with his road bike there is TONS to know about bikes, riding, gear etc.
He's right. It takes a lot longer to build up a cycling base than it does a running base. Make yourself a little checklist for before heading out to ride (like making sure the brakes aren't rubbing). Once you get into the rhythm, it will be easier. Just know that it will alway be more time-consuming than running, though!
The face of Kitty-Hate
I'm having a lot of the same feelings. I feel slow, wobbly, & tentative. I'm sure things will all come together. It's hard to start something new, especially something so technical.
I am confident that you'll be giving us your race report for your upcoming tri & will be telling us all about how great your ride was
2012 Races: 3/18 Shamrock Shuffle 5k; 4/14 E.R. Race for Autism 5k (PR! 25:58); 6/9 Riudoso Sprint Triathlon; 6/24 Chunky Monkey 10K; 7/29 Cochiti Lake Olympic Triathlon; 9/16 Chips & Salsa 1/2 Marathon; 10/21 Duke City 1/2 Marathon; 12/2 Rock & Roll 1/2 Marathon in Vegas!
so so glad I'm not alone in feeling this way! Maybe we should start our own "I need training wheels" club!
j+k+m+e | running with needles
It will get better!!!!
I'd look at taking some clinics. How to ride clinics, mechanics clinics, anything you can do. A lot of bike shops host those type of clinics for free or for a small fee. I wish I knew of some in your area. Just ask around--bike shops, clubs, etc.
Southeastern Cycling
My Nest Bio and Cycling Advice
You nailed it! In this club, can we include a good scolding for when I go for a run or a swim instead of going for a ride? There are days that I feel like I'd be better off running the bike course
2012 Races: 3/18 Shamrock Shuffle 5k; 4/14 E.R. Race for Autism 5k (PR! 25:58); 6/9 Riudoso Sprint Triathlon; 6/24 Chunky Monkey 10K; 7/29 Cochiti Lake Olympic Triathlon; 9/16 Chips & Salsa 1/2 Marathon; 10/21 Duke City 1/2 Marathon; 12/2 Rock & Roll 1/2 Marathon in Vegas!
It gets better! I still consider myself a beginner even though I've been riding for a couple of years but, when I get frustrated, I think about all of the things I can accomplish now on the bike that I couldn't just months ago.
I understand though. I am having a love/hate relationship with my cross bike right now (it isn't as speedy as my roadie) and I just want to throw in the towel. I know though that if I just keep riding it things will get better and I will get used to it. I can totally sympathize with your feelings though, but I have confidence that it will get better!