Originally Posted by
bhchdh
What is the course profile ? I'm a flat-lander and my lowest gear on a vintage bike is 40/28.
Well, you can ride modern if you need to. I rode 39/32 last year, and did almost all of my climbing on 39/30.
I'd say it can be done on 40/28, but if you can find a smaller front ring, that may be a good solution.
Like others said, you find your groove and just go. Relax, it's not all day. Not a leg-breaker, but it will find you humble.
What size do you ride?