Hey folks,

I've been wanting to give road biking a try since I live too far from any trails these days (the closest one is about 40 minutes away, and since I'm already gone 12 hours a day for work, I just don't have the 1.5 hours + ride time to spare). I haven't even been on a bike in nearly 3 years. I've been keeping my eye out for a deal on a used bike and nothing has surfaced, so I picked up a used Specialized Hardrock with the hopes of converting it to a road bike (or at least some semblance to one).

There are some components that will need replaced (mis-matched wheels, sprockets are pretty rusted, etc) and I just had a few questions.

1) When looking at sites like Nashbar, they have things broken down to road and MTB (or ATB). For instance, when I click on "cranks" it brings up links for "Road cranks" and "ATB cranks", plus accessories & chainrings. If I'm looking for road-worthy gear, which would I look under? Are these designated by frame types? If I wanted to get new wheels, would I still click on "Wheels - MTB"? Will a crankset listed under 'road' fit a MTB frame?

2) For road riding, does more teeth on the sprocket make a difference?

Any here that have make a similar conversion that could offer advice/suggestions? I'd sure appreciate it.