[alanmcorcoran]

One more thing I learned from the bicycle world: if you can't straddle it with both feet flat on the ground - it's too big (high) for you. Fortunately, I am of almost exactly average height so most bikes fit me pretty closely.

Not sure if this is the case with you, but I understand things a lot sooner than I actually learn them. Add in a scare, pain or other adrenaline inducing moment, and I learn a bit quicker. I'll be doing a little more thinking next time I park on the street.