So much of what has been said here resonates with me. I live in northeastern CT and it is surprising how hilly it can be. And, at 5'9" and 185 lbs I am near my college football weight but at age 66 nowhere near as strong or fast as I used to be. (Probably didn't have to say that to this group). Last season I changed to a compact crankset and that actually helped but getting down to 170 lbs would be even better I'm guessing. I only ride about 2,000 mi. a season so I'm thinking more miles would help too.