Great advice from everyone... it's great to see a forum with women giving out the mechanical advice!

As for chains, I normally replace mine every 1500 miles and use SRAM chains. I have a Campy drivetrain, and have used Wipperman and SRAM chains on that. SRAM chains are easier to work with than Shimano(and their little pins)and very durable... I have been using them since the early 90's. You can also buy extra links(masterlink) in case of breaking a chain... especially a great thing for mountain bikers.