I thought this a good forum to post this question since I know there are lots of cyclists, and more recently lots of Australians.
I just moved from Chicago to Melbourne Australia with my wife and two dogs. I'm getting settled in a love it here so far, but I'm unsure how to get into cycling here. In Chicago I did a fair amount of cycling, either indoors on a Computrainer or outdoors by myself or with a friend or two. Never an organized group ride.
I'd like to purchase a bike in the next couple of days (found the one I want at a local shop), and would like to start cycling outdoors. My issue is that I'm not sure where to start! I'm a bit intimidated by the busy roads here, cars on the left side of the road, and different cycling rules/culture. What's a good way to find a small 'beginner group' that wouldn't mind showing me how things are done here? I'm 30yr old and have good cycling fitness, but more worried about the rules.
I live in Prahran, VIC and don't own a car, so joining a group far from here is difficult. If I were good friends w/ someone at the local bike shop I'd definitely ask one of them to show me around.
Anyways, any suggestions would be highly appreciated!
Thanks,
Ryan R.