By "basic bike maintenance" they probably just mean you should learn how to change the tube if you ever get a flat tire, how to lube your chain, etc.... not "how to build a bike"!
A lot of bike shops offer a "basic maintenance" class for free.
If you get that road bike, you can have the saddle moved back/forward - as well as up/down, and the handlebar raised to get you into a more upright position. The stem may also be replaced with a shorter one. Later on, you can have a shop install levers on the top of the bar for easier braking when riding with your hands on the tops of the bar.
Last edited by GovernorSilver; 09-26-15 at 11:57 AM.