picking out a bike . . .

[staceysue]

I thought of some more questions - hope somebody can help out!

Right now, I'm just riding a comfort bike 13 miles at a time. I have a new bike (Trek 7200 - hybrid) on layaway but it's not too late to change my mind. Here's a picture, but I'm buying it locally http://helenscycles.com/itemdetails.cfm?LibId=47536 The handlebars are adjustable - I think they'll go lower. I don't want to be very upright, but I think I want a hybrid bike because I do quite a bit of riding on gravel roads and need something a little more cushy than a road bike. I also need to stay under $500.

1. My hand goes numb after about 7 miles. I'm pretty sure it's because my handlebars are too upright and I have to bend my wrists so much and lean weight on them. I'm wondering - will this be a problem with the new bike? What kind of handlebars are the best? The handlebars are the only thing making me hesitant about this bike - does it look overly upright?

2. My big toe also gets numb. Is this a common problem? I have no clue how to go about picking out a good saddle.

3. Do I REALLY have to get bicycle shorts to get rid of the chafing? It's so nice to just go out and ride in yoga pants. Doesn't anybody make panties without a seam in the crotch area? Maybe I should just go commando - but that may be even worse, because the pants have a vertical seam . . . .