New to this whole thing

try these links to start out:

http://health.iafrica.com/fitness/cycling/cycletraining.htm

http://www.jimlangley.net/crank/bikingskills.html

http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/bikes/prevent.shtml

http://www.be-safe.org/css_com/bicycle/basic_skills.html

i think two main tasks u should concern yourself with as far as bike maintenance is to know how to fix blown tires or what to do when your chain comes off from faulty gear changing.  both of these happen in triathlons frequently.  first look at your chain and all the parts that keep it tense.  play with them, figure out how it works and exactly what the derailuer does when shifting gears.  now take the chain off and make a mess of it (real-life condition)  now put it back on.  u can do it.  this is how i taught my mom before her first tri. do this several times till your confident u can do this on the road.  wash your hands.