Funny about the saddle looking to far forward and hand pain. I just moved my saddle almost 2 cm forward and my hand pain decreased dramatically - I was feeling to stretched out. I think when I swapped saddles I didn't set my saddle on the right mark on the rail. Of course, if you have assistance do the plumb bob test and see if you knee is in proper position. I bet there is a step by step you tube out there. Here is the bike hermits blog post on saddle and set back

Bar end shifters, take a bit to get used to, on the mount and dismount, don't fret. After 4 years I still occasionally stab myself in the thigh and hey my bike shorts usually cover up the bruise