new bike, training, all sorts of stuff...help!!

[SouthernBelle]

Just a couple of things:

Your shorts should be picked to fit your butt. If the belly being squished is a real issue, take a look at bib shorts.

For training purposes, there are lots of programs both online and in books. Take a look at some century training programs for example. Riding the trainer is boring, especially if you are just pedaling. There are DVDs, Spinervals and Carmicheal Training for example, to use with the trainer. Also if you have anything you used with running, like mp3s with intervals, they work with the bike.

Ditto what was said about possibly needing a different saddle as well as you may need to be properly fit on your bike.

Also agree with the suggestion that a road bike of some kind will make a ride like RAGBRAI much easier. That come in models for all types of terrains. Mine's pure road and I've ridden it on some pretty rough terrain.

BTW, congrats on doing RAGBRAI. Did you see Lance?

[breezy]

What was your training plan last year?
What are your cycling goals for this year?

I did a hilly century on a hybrid and bought a road bike after that. It is a triple (extra gears) and carbon fiber (super light). What you should buy now depends on what your cycling goals are. A hybrid makes you sit more upright, something you may now want if you are doing long rides and trying to improve times. Anything with suspension may be nice on trails but slows you down overall.

A new bike with a new riding position and new fit will change all of your seat, knee, and hip issues. Make sure you get a bike that fits. A good bike fit and time in the saddle should leave you with no pains.

I have never used chamois butter. Could it be you were using too much?

[Starfish]

I am not a fan of chamois butter. The one time I used it was the one time I got a sore. Go figure. I know lots of folks like it, though.

I second the idea of a 'cross bike, or even a road bike. Could you keep your hybrid and use it for the short trips around town and trails (if it fits, that is).

At the very least TEST lots of bikes, including some nice road bikes. You might find that the different position and bike are such a nice change that you are out there training on the roads before you know it. You could keep your hybrid for commuting.

Sounds like you are enticed to do the longer rides. If you enjoy the longer endurance riding, a nice road bike will be a treat for you, and actually help you improve faster, IMO. And, Knot's right...a nice 'cross bike could do double duty.

Good luck, and great for you getting out there!

Edited to add: you might check the ingredients in the chamois butter. Some people are irritated by things like lanolin...maybe a different lube would help?

[Zen]

Why are you considering replacing the hybrid with a lighter hybrid?
If it's a problem with or fear of riding in the drops check out something along the lines of the Trek Pilot It's an affordable entry level road bike with a more upright position.

Keep the hybrid for around town.

ETA-never mind, I reread your post and saw why you want a different bike. Put in my vote for a cross bike too.

[makbike]

I would suggest a professional bike fitting.