I'm not a novice, but I feel like one.

[Zen]

Re: jerseys - why do you wear them instead of tank tops?

pockets.
that is the only reason.

I cycle wearing a pair of padded cycle shorts - and howcome nobody makes them SHORT???? I hate that they come down so long.

So do I, especially because I'm so short. I usually wear tri shorts. Not as much padding but sufficient and they're much shorter. TE sells them

I don't even know what cadence IS.

I know and I don't care. Don't worry about it, just enjoy your ride.