OK, the main thing I'll say is that you have steel rims, which provide a horrible braking surface, especially when wet. So, until you replace them (if you like the bike, you really should), look around at your local bike shop (LBS) for "Kool Stop" brake pads in the "Salmon" (orange-ish) color. They're very good in rain. Sounds like a good beater/commuter, though.