I’ve been commuting by bike for about two months now. It’s a rather short commute--about six miles one way-- but it has one really nasty hill. It’s a 3/4 mile ten percent grade with the uphill portion on my way home.

Lately, this hill has become mentally and physically punishing. I think it has actually gotten harder than when I first started commuting and wasn’t in very good shape. By the time I reach the top I have sweat pouring down my face, legs are burning, and I’m breathing pretty hard. And this is when the weather has been unseasonably cool. I think heat stroke would be a very real possibility if the temps get into the 90’s or 100’s as they usually do this time of year.

I don’t mind a challenge, but this hill is starting to suck all the joy out of my ride. I’m considering splitting my commute into a biking portion on the relatively flat area and then just driving for the killer hill.

Anyone else have a comparable hill and what do you do in the hot summer months?