Originally Posted by
bikemig
This is not low end but not worth investing a lot of money in either. Think of this bike as a wise investment. You bought the bike at a reasonable price and found out you liked cycling. You also found out that this bike is not optimal for your needs. You can sell it to recoup some of your costs or keep it as a lock up/utility bike. Now you know what you need. You can either buy new or find a used bike that has the features you are looking for. If you like the look of vintage bikes, then buy a used one. You can find a really great used bike for quite a bit less than an equivalent quality new bike. Given the terrain you ride in you may want a bike with a triple (triples are more common on vintage bikes than compact cranks).
Good advice, here. Keep it, and keep on riding it. You say you've been cycling only a few months, and if you really start to enjoy it, trust me: You'll be looking for that next bike. If you sold it now, chances are good you might lose money on the deal
AND regret it later down the road.
New brakes and tires would make for fine upgrades in the near future. However, I personally wouldn't go too crazy with integrated shifters and compact chain rings....not that I have anything against either (my bikes have combinations of all that stuff). If you keep riding, the hills
WILL get easier. I promise. All I know of Yorkshire is what I saw during last year's TdF, and it certainly isn't pancake flat. But after several 100 more kilometers you'll notice your weight dropping and your legs strengthening. Quads will firm up and the calves will be nicely defined. Better fitness and a slimmer body is (monetarily) free, and I believe will do greater wonders for your climbing versus spending money to save a couple teeth on your chain rings.
If you haven't already, subscribe to GCN (Global Cycling Network) on YouTube. An excellent chanel (and they're Brits!) with tons of good advice for cyclists of all abilities.