TheTrain, Pain, Gain Game by AndyP_1973

So a couple of questions, if anyone can help....!?

1. I need some new running trainers and I've been told about 5 Fingers shoes.... http://www.vibramfivefingers.it/eng/running.aspx

... and that they are the thing run in to avoid sore knees and to promote good running style.  Anyone used them before?  

2.  How to avoid the pain of long cycles.... does it really have to feel like I've been kicked repeatedly in the backside by a horse after 2 hours on the bike???!!!   Would getting decent cycling shorts help???

Maybe I'm just looking for an excuse to spend more money, as if the half iron man prep hasn't been expensive enough....!!!

Have a half marathon at Dorney Lake Windsor this Sunday, so will get an idea of how my training has gone.  I'd hoped to beat my best 1.36.04 from Reading a couple of years ago, but doubt I'll get near it as I've only done a few long runs so far.