The reality is that not all human beings are created equal (or train equal!)

If you are a randonneur and trains a lot, participates in several centuries per year and puts over 1000 miles/month over all kinds of terrain, obviously that those mountains will appear as piece o cake, even the ones out west (they do go much higher.) For the average joe, they'll be glad to have that granny gear when the road gets steep and are riding fully loaded.

Remember that it's all about the engine. It's obvious that you have a helluva good one!