Thank you, everyone, for your encouragement. I have taken the plunge. Gear-wise, I'm going from 24/34//42 teeth to 28/38/48. It's all pretty much Greek to me, but apparently means I'll have a larger front crank and therefore more speed on the flats. This will help so much when I'm late for work! Will also be upgrading the shifters and grips, and installing fenders. My LBS is recommending going from cantilevers to V-brakes, any thoughts?