My commuter is an old Schwinn Continental converted to FG. I too have a freewheel which I've stopped using (one less moving part!). FG is really great especially in the winter, as has been mentioned above.

Currently I'm running 50x16, but that is just because 50 is the size of the big ring on the used crankset I slapped on. (See http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread...dapter-Problem for the full adventure.) 50 is really too tall for the stop and go of commuting, so I got a 46 which I will install as soon as I get the chance (after the holidays etc).

I was motivated by the exact same issue - winter maintenance. Before I caved in I was highly skeptical of the whole FG/SS "fad". Now that I'm riding one, I have truly seen the light! Go for it!

I should note though that I live in Chicago. For the most part, our only hills are bridges and they are pretty small and brief.

I should also note that a 3 speed conversion or restoration IS on my list of future projects.