I don't get off the bike. I'm not too proud to use the granny gear. My steepest climb is 3.5% over a half mile.

I keep my hands near the brakes at all times, but I will hover over them going downhill. I also ride more to the center of the lane so it's easier for cars to see me. The only times I've been hooked are when I was over to the side and in a crouched position. I have been honked at a few times but there's no shoulder on this section of road and there are two lanes in each direction, so I usually just look back and shrug.