After reading through all of these posts (and riding a little bit more), I realize now that I am probably just really weak. I had a couple of long stretches this winter where I didn't ride at all.

I rode the other night and it felt a little better now that I'm getting used to riding regularly. My hands are still really feeling some pressure in the crook between my thumb and my index finger. I ride in the hoods mostly, but on this bike I seem to have to change hand positions every minute to keep from hurting.

Tonight, I will prop it up in the trainer and get my wife to take a few pictures. I feel like I have to apologize in advance to all of the period-perfect droolers out there! The gum hoods for the original levers were dried out and cracked after sitting for so long without being used. I replaced the levers with a cheap Cane Creek pair and I wrapped the bars in red. I also threw some thick slicks tires on it, because I was in a pinch and they were the cheapest things I could get my hands on (am I disgusting you yet?). To be honest, the tires look like balloons now that I know a little bit more about road bikes in general. The pedals are now Keo Classics so I can use my shoes on it.

Never fear! I saved the levers and the original pedals. I want to preserve this thing, but I also want to ride it.

So, when I post pictures tonight or tomorrow, don't be alarmed. The changes are either temporary, or for my riding comfort.