No more difficult than the walking would be. It's a constant gentle slope that I didnt even notice until I rode a scooter to work one day. (And boy did I look ridiculous doing it!) I think the bike I'm looking at also had a one speed version, back when I was doing research. I know it's entry level, but I figure I shouldnt sink too much money into a bike yet, see how I like commuting, then when I'm getting more hours and a higher paycheck, look into getting something a little more noteworthy. (I do know I want a hybrid though, I dont like road bikes, the tires feel too thin to me.)