Hi, I'm new here to the forums and I have a couple questions. I have ridden bikes a long time (since childhood, hehe), but never considered myself a 'cyclist' per say. It was never towards any goal, except to get where I was going. However, recently I moved and a lot of things in my life happened, and I find myself wanting a hobby. I picked up a Trek 7000 in very good condition for $100 on craigslist. I am quite pleased with it. However, I have not had any work or anything done to it...it just rides quite well and nothing squeeks or has broken.
I find myself riding 10-15 miles at a time for the sheer heck of it. I really like the freedom is gives me for some reason. I have come to the conclusion I would like to ride a century at some point...possibly next spring. I do not plan on riding this bike for the century. Its a hybrid with an aluminum frame, and I cannot imagine being on that bike for several hours. So my questions are these:
1) Am I out of my mind for wanting to try a century with no long distance cycling experience?
2) How much am I looking to spend on a decent road bike that will be capable of such a feat?
3) Is it ok to 'train' (eg: continue doing up to 50mi rides) on the trek? Even if its not a road bike?
4) Should I invest in clips?
5) I broke my coccyx (tailbone) 3 years ago, riding has been giving me a lot of pain. Anyone recommend a good seat that would work with the above questions?
Thanks :) I know its a lot of questions!