Padded bike shorts will help a lot with the sore butt problem. I have the Aerotech shorts and a pair of Terry shorts, and I prefer the Aerotech (sorry Terry!). The fabric is a little heavier with a little stronger lycra. I am trying to get my seriously plus-size hubby to ride with me, and his whole attitude changed when I got him a pair of shorts from Aerotech. I haven't completely solved the bike-butt problem, but I do know that I feel better the more I ride, in spite of the sore butt. And I refuse to be intimidated by the mini-cyclists out there. I detest wind and hills, but the more effort you give it, the stronger you will get. A hill is one time when the down side is the best part!