Okay Ladies...

I know literally nothing about road bikes. But I want one. Okay? ha ha! So, here goes:

The shifters are integrated with the brakes? How does this work? How do you shift? How do you brake? This is a complete mystery to me...

Can someone transitioning from a MTB tip up the drop handlebars a little bit to "ease into" the more horizontal riding position of a road bike?

My MTB has three "big rings" and 7 cogs...is the gear set-up the same on a road bike?

I'm risking looking stupid here, but hey, I have only ridden this big, honkin' HEAVY-*** mountain bike. I won't get any smarter if I don't ask, right? ((grin))!!

Thanks, in advance for your help!

~Julie