I'm wondering if there is anything that I can do to my bike to make it more fun and efficient for the commute. It's a Norco brand, not sure of the exact kind (not much of a gearhead, sorry!), but what I do know is that it's flipping HEAVY!!! It was sold to me a couple years ago at our LBS for about $400 - and they said it was kind of a hybrid and good for commuting. Well, my commute is fairly long, and after an hour and a half on it I can really feel the weight dragging me down.

The commute is *relatively* flat, with a few inclines and a steep, but short hill.

Any suggestions? I was thinking aero bars would help out a ton (the flat bars get uncomfortable after a while, feel I need some variety), maybe slicker tires? Will be heading to the LBS for suggestions as well, but thought I'd start here!

What about a new bike for around $5-600? I could see myself spending a lot just for the upgrade...

Oh, I commute mostly on rural highways which are known to have gravel and other weird things (like pigs!) along the road.

Thx!