So I've recently started mountain biking. I gave a road bike a shot and hated how bad. It beat. me up even on decent roads here in Michigan, and do plan to do some off roading.

I have a raleigh talus 29r 2012.
got it a few days ago, running stock everything.

what would be a good city tire for me? I was looking at http://m.rei.com/mt/www.rei.com/prod...y-tire-29-x-20
for increasing my road efficiency. good idea? something better?

is the energy lost. due to front suspension reason enough to lock it out and let my ass get a bit more beat up? no serious math needed.

looking for a good pair of. value bike shorts. I'm on a budget after having just bought the bike.