Thanks guys, you're all awesome; I'll try some of these techniques. One of the reasons I want to learn this is because everywhere I ride is freakin' traffic; it drives me nuts. I want to try gravel grinding just to get out away from cars; but around here it's all mtb or roadies, not my thing, so I may have to work it out on my own. I like to ride, to go and see new places; competition and adrenaline are not it for me, traveling and discovery is. (Sorry for the mini-rant, I'm a little frustrated.)

Also, I can't believe Union is only 8.5%! They must be averaging it with the flat(ish) intersection before the steeper bit. If it is, I'll have to give even more kudos to those who ride up really steep hills.