Howdy.

I've been riding one of those shiny new Bianchi Pistas for about a month now...i'm hooked on fixed gear now.

I don't race, I just tool around town and get where I need to go and I've got a few questions:

1) Anybody have an opinion on chain tensioners? I've tensioned my chain w/o that little gadget, but I just wanted to know if anyone actually uses those things.

2) How long should a chain last and how do you know when it's time for a new one. I ride around philly on a daily basis...nothing too crazy, just gettin' 'round. How long should my chain last and how will I know it's time for a new one.

3) Bullhorn bars. I've been told they enhance control in high traffic situations...is that more or less true? If so, what brand/features should I look for in bullhorn bars.

Thanks in advance for the advice
bz