Hi,
Thanks for your response. I think you're right about the gears. I googled them, and it looks like I have exactly the ones you said. And I am basically doing the tri for fun, though I want to do as well as possible- but for this first one, my main concern is finishing, and not being dead last. So I guess more upright might be okay. Someone else I know suggested a hybrid bike- does that sound right? And can I get one with flat bars like you said?

Oh, and if anyone is in the San Fernando Valley area, could you tell me where is the best place to go looking for a bike, that has really knowledgeable sales staff? I'm also not looking to spend a ton of money yet because I figure this is something of a test.