I'd like some opinions please

[Guest guest]

Hi guys,

I'd appreciate some opinions about something that's been bugging me for a

while now.

I bought a mountain bike a few months back, it was a pretty expensive one and

I've been out on it only a couple of times because, well basically, I am

afraid that people are going to laugh at me because I am a fat guy riding a

bike.

For some twisted reason, my mind tells me that unless you have the physique

of Lance Armstrong, I should not even consider riding a bike because I will

look ridiculous, the bike will look tiny, the tyres will probably explode with

my

weight on it and I am going to look like something out of a National Lampoon

movie, cue Chevy Chase !!

Ok, I know this is a serious distortion and most people probably wont even

notice me but I'm just wondering, do any of you guys cycle for exercise or do

any of you feel really self conscious when you exercise ?

I had a similar problem a couple of years back at a step aerobics class, I

was the only guy at this *mixed class* and the only person overweight, I wanted

the ground to open up and swallow me whole I was so embarrassed. Needless to

say, despite several people being friendly and chatting to me, it was my one

and only visit. I know getting out and riding will be a good thing for me but

I am loathe to do it when it makes me feel so damn self conscious !!! Any

thoughts ???

Thanks guys