I think he could do it if he has a different gearing? My DH has a bigger front ring than my triple and I usually run out of gears before he does. Of course going up a steep hill it is a different story thanks to my baby ring.
For the record, I have hit right at 49 miles on a hill here called Tumbleweed Hill. Long, steep, no curves. It is scary and fun all at the same time. No aero position, just gripping the bars for dear life and feathering the brakes.
Amanda
2011 Specialized Epic Comp 29er | Specialized Phenom | "Marie Laveau"
2007 Cannondale Synapse Carbon Road | Selle Italia Lady Gel Flow | "Miranda"
You don't have to be great to get started, but you do have to get started to be great. -Lee J. Colan