is it possible? I hope that's not as dumb a question as it sounds and please tell me it's not possible or my fears become real.

Bianche Babe - I'd like to say there are huge hills her, but not compared to the ones you see. We do have hills and we do have some good size ones, but I'm not riding them just yet. I live at the top of a hill though so if I do roll backwards all my neighbors will see!!!

Travel west of Raleigh at all and you're in the foot hills. Probably the same "hillwise" as you deal with, but without the altitude/lack of air issues. I am hoping to ride the blue ridge parkway next fall. It runs the ridge line of the NC and VA mountains. I have a lot of riding to do between now and then!