I have no problem clipping in. Uphill starts were a little difficult for a month or two. No longer an issue after being 'bent for 18 months. Hill-climbing is not really a problem. Maybe a little slower uphill than I was on hybrids, but getting faster. Overall, riding faster than upright. Can't see the rear cogset, but that's what indexed shifting is for, right? (compact long wheelbase Tailwind)