All of this is fantastic information, and I now understand just how many things I did wrong - to start with I should have gotten more clarification from the LBS staff - but I didn't know enough to know WHAT to clarify Hopefully the chain didn't get any real damage from a novice owner. I know they are not expensive, but I don't want to have to face that any sooner than I have to.

At least the gunk from the chain covered up the scars on my leg that the chain gave me in my clipless Olympics

What about the chain on my new LHT - it is quite sticky with the original lube - is it best to leave it or to remove it? It sounds like it is good to leave it for a time?