221 through there has steeper grades than the parkway, but they are not as long and are broken up w/ some flat sections. I brought an old steel bike w/ 42/26 gearing, and managed all the hills fine but I admit the last brp hill before the 221/blowing rock cutover was long and hard. If you go to MM you should definitely summit if conditions allow, it it well worth it. Bring a windbreaker for the descent...
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1989 Schwinn Paramount OS
1980 Mclean/Silk Hope Sport Touring
1983 Bianchi pista
1976 Fuji Feather track
1979 raleigh track
"I've consulted my sources and I'm pretty sure your derailleur does not exist"