I recomend join a club as there will be someone there who can help you find a Local Bike Shop ( LBS) who will set your bike up correctly. Also club runs are a great way of motivating you to get out nad ride and find lots of great safe routes. Try several clubs to the right one for you. I joined tor2000.co.uk in somerset to train for sportives and now race (Badly) aswell. Its great fun but helps to have targets which is why I find sportives great.