Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
Likes: 317
From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
I live in Chicago and can't find much of a hill for 100 miles in any direction.
This year I discovered the kind of hilly riding described in the opening post... and love it. Climbing 10 to 22% grades provides a challenge and promotes fitness in a way that cannot be duplicated on flat routes.
How much do I enjoy hills? I drove 2.5 hours to ride the hilly region west of Madison WI 12 times this year. I also completed the Dairyland Dare 150k with 10,000 feet of climbing.
I'm planning my riding for next year and hope to complete 3 century events and a road race in the same hilly region. To prepare, I'll need to travel to Wisconsin almost every week during May, June & July.