[creekster]

I also echo the advice about a good pair of shorts. SHop carefullym, however, as XL does not mean the same thing to all manufacturers (I ahte those stinking skinny Eyetalians).

I also suggest you get into clipless pedals asap. They will make a big difference, and they will allow you to pedal 'round' as oppsoed to 'square', mneaning you will be able to use your leg to pull up on the up stroke as well as to push down on the down stroke, which is good for you aerobically as well as for muscle strengthening.