I was blown away by how much easier it is to climb hills on my new Specialized Tricross Comp than my old, heavier Specialized Crossroads hybrid. But I can't believe I would have found it as easy going up hill on my old bike if I dropped the few pounds of body weight that equivalent to the difference between the two. I can understand a big drop in body weight making a big difference but not such a little. Is there something about the bike itself being lighter that makes such a difference? If not, I would think all of the roadies who spend $$$ to save a few ounces would just go on a diet instead.