Originally Posted by dougmon

The terrain that I've ridden so far is pretty flat. My street ascends at about a 15 degree angle; but due to my physical shape, even that was difficult. At least until I stopped 'mashing heavy gears', which I think must be a common rookie mistake.

Once I get better at riding, I will be taking some more difficult hills on my commute; but only about a 45 degree angle, and then only for about a block at a time.

Thanks for the advice.