Yeah, I was thinking a nice touring bike with cross lever brakes would be exactly what the doctor odered.

Touring bikes do hills very well and are just perfect for commuting San Francisco. Just checkout the SF REI at 840 Brannan St.

I think you'll just love cycling the Four Corners of the world:
www.rei.com/product/855383/marin-four-corners-bike-2012-overstock

* Touring bikes can be outfitted with wider tires for country trails too!

If your height is right, it's all yours!