Get new Coolstop pads and race the damn thing! I spent my whole first year crossing an old 1986 Raleigh road bike frame with cross tires as the only change. It wasn't the best, but it was enough to get me hooked for life. Besides, you said you wanted to ride SS this season and this will be a good way to see if you like it without much cash outlay. Go ahead. It'll be a fun learning experience as long as you don't expect too much more than just riding the hell out of it and having a blast in the meantime.