For the record i like to ride in NYC, and NYC is not flat, especially in what we call upstate Manhattan. There is a reason they use the words "heights" . I live on Long Island, where we just had a beuatiful new long traail and park . It is part of an older bike path that has a both a paved path, and a dirt trail. Part of the trail is the right of way for a never finished expressway (and never will be) that has some really scary climbs (for me) on dirt. I also ride canal paths a lot in NJ and PA. The bike does see a varied terrain. My road bike (Century Le Mons) I am going to start riding on paved paths to see what i can do/tolerate/move safely. I want this for everything else , from paved to trails to food shopping.

Thanks for all the input.