Originally Posted by noisebeam
Ken,
I've never used a rear brake, but think the one case it may be good to have is if one does like push ones spin to limits downhill, that getting the bike back into control with a rear brake at high speed/spin is safer.
I am also intrigued by your going faster at 72 vs. 82. I used to use only 75 and now 85 and find I can ride faster and faster longer with the extra 10.
Al
Its all about developing your spin. As your legs get used to going faster, your muscles become more efficient up to a point. With a higher gear ratio, sometimes you will find that you won't have the strength over a long period of time to get into your most efficient cadence. So while you might be able to spin for miles at 120rpm with a low gear, you might find yourself getting pooped trying to spin at 80 rpm with a higher gear. Then again everybody's muscles are different, so what work for some, won't work for everybody.
To the OP, i've found that the important part of riding hills is making sure you don't ride beyond your control. Once your pedals start spinning faster than your legs can keep up, its impossible to backpedal, skip or skid without a brake. Ride with a brake until you learn where that point is.