Day number 2. I rode for about 45 minutes today. At first, I was still a little shaky, again walking the bike in 1st for a couple of minutes. I got my legs up though and rode around for a little while in 1st, trying to muster up the courage to shift into second gear. The first time I tried it, I felt like I was going to lose control and panicked and pulled on the throttle too much - but I regained composure. After a little more riding in first, I felt like I was ready. I started out, pulled in the clutched and lifted the gearshift. A little sputter, and success! I was in second. Everyone is correct, it is much easier to maintain your balance if you go a little faster. I rode around for a little bit and decided I needed to practice down shifting, braking and upshifting. I also made sure to practice slowing before a curve / turn so I could get the feel of the brakes. After a few times downshifting, stopping and then upshifting, my shifting was smoother and there were fewer sputters. I'm feeling alot more comfortable on the bike but still don't think I am ready for the street. Baby steps.

Next time I ride, I am hoping there is enough room back there to get into third gear so I can practice shifting some more and get a little more speed. I'm thinking after a couple more practices behind the building, I might be ready for the neighborhood. But is the neighborhood ready for me?