boston's a cakewalk compared to NYC. Philly as well. Not to say they don't have their challenges, but whenever we NY'ers go there we're amazed at the comparitive "chillness." SF on the other hand is just plain a joy to ride in, i often found myself starting to get bored and miss the challenge of NYC traffic! that's when i'd forego the easy route and ride up one of their gnarly hills. wasn't bored anymore!