So, the bike doesn't fit. Damn.

[bcipam]

When I bought my Lemond in 2002, the shop had recommend a 53 but I went for the 51 as in the shop, it felt more comfortable. It took a year but I realized the 53 was a better fit. That said I have been riding the bike comfortably since then. It was a matter of a good fitting and then some adjustment of handlebar, seat position, pedals etc. and the bike has done me well. Thankfully I have now saved enough money to have a custom frame built but I still ride the Lemond.

I can't imagine the bike is so small it can't be adjusted. It doesn't take that much money - find a good fitter in your area and see what he can do. $150 for a fitting is much less than money for a new frame. And having a good fitting and the measurements will keep you from repeating your mistake.

Good luck with the problem... Loraura gave you excellent advice. Alot of what you are experiencing I believe just comes from lack of fitness. And I agree with a flat bar - unless you are biking mountain a flat bar is not good. I assume you are sitting very upright on your bike which is why you want a flat bar and a wide saddle. That positioning causes alot of the problem you are complaining of. There is a reason most roadies want to be bent forward at the waist. Using your core to support your weight will definitely take pressures off your hands and wrist. You are riding with your arms bent - correct? And wider saddles are not always better.

And yes Hybrids are generally cruiser bikes - for short easy distance but that is not to say you can't do a century on them. I've seen people do centuries on beach cruisers (hate them). I think as you train for your century alot of problems will go away.