+1 That's the main objective ticked off!

The more hours you put in, the more your confidence (and speed) will grow. However, speed isn't everything. Everyone always takes the pi55 out of me for being a bit on the steady side, but it doesn't bother me. Just enjoy, go at your own speed, whatever you feel comfortable with, and if you ever go riding in a group, don't let others dictate your pace (just like on a road ride). A good mate/riding companion will always wait for you further down the track.

Bike sounds OK. Were you slipping the clutch a bit?

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