Originally Posted by mohair sam

Hi everyone. I'm not a cyclist. I'm not going to become a cyclist.
That said, I've looked through the forums here and found some great info.
But I need some additional help. I own a 1992 GT Outpost. It still rides fairly well, but I never ride trails, I just want to make it a little more comfortable for riding short trips around town. I went to the local bike shop and the guy basically told me that was the dumbest idea he had ever heard and that new bikes are technologically so much more advanced now, he basically talked me out of the store.
I have seen a couple of members on here with "cityfied" versions of the same bike that I have, and they look pretty cool. I really just want to put a more comfortable saddle, and handlebars with a mild rise.
But, here's where I need help: I don't need 21 speeds. I also don't want a single speed. The shifter for the rear gearset is broken already - it only shifts in one direction. Is there a way I can remove that shifter and derailleur and keep the tensioner? Or is there a separate tensioner that I need to buy instead?
Sorry for the dumb question. I just want to enjoy my bike more, and I really don't have the cash flow to go buy a new bike. Thanks!