On the seat thing: involuntary friction burn in my nether region is something I'd rather never experience again. Back in 2000 I went thru 3 seats before I found one suitable for long distance comfort. It is the Koobi. I got there entry level saddle ($69 then) and was oh so happy!. You can only get them online (I think) at koobi.com.

I'm doing ok on the stock racing saddle that came on my new Allez Comp, but at the first sign of smoke , on goes the Koobi!