Ubuntu can be a PITA but not because of your problem. It tends to make Linux more complicated by trying to make it too easy if that makes sense. It's one of the better distros for Linux newbies but it can be annoying for L/U/nix veterans.
As mentioned GRUB doesn't go on the BIOS it goes on the MBR of the hard disk usually. IT usually doesn't touch the BIOS. IF you still want to get a dual boot system with Ubuntu check out:
http://ubuntuforums.org/forumdisplay.php?f=326 Register there and ask for help in that section. Someone will probably walk you through it. Show them the error messages too.