Originally Posted by
avaserfi
...The biggest problem is I normally max out my bikes gearing for a bit of the ride. The way back is a little different, most of the ride is into semi-strong wind because the buildings and houses creates a wind tunnel for about three quarters of the ride....
Don't get an internally geared bike if you're maxing out your current gearing. As much as I like the Shimano Alfine on my commuter, I have to say that I have much the same problem - maxing it out one way, struggling the other. That's with the eight speed - seven and lower have even more limited range. I.G.H. bikes mainly excel in stop-and-go downtown riding over flatter roads. They're heavy - my present aluminum Rocky Mountain Metropolis weighs 10 pounds more than the 23 year old steel touring bike it replaced.
I'm inclined to agree with Exile, a used road bike with fender eyelets might be your best bet.