The ride I did on Sunday had about a dozen monster hills over a 60 mile course. All tarmac road, but quiet, back roads.

One hill was signposted 21%

21%!!! Bloody hell. I didn't dare stop coz If I did, how would I ever get back on the saddle to turn the first crank? Luckily, because I had heard of the ride's reputation I had replaced my 11-23 cassette with a 13-28. I already had a triple chain ring.

There were plenty of folk on lovely Pinarellos and Bianchis with double chain rings and low ratio cassettes who had no option but to walk the big hills. Not a lot wrong with their fitness, stength or bikes, just merciless gearing for the inclines.

Stew