Clare -- I sure empathize with your trepidation when it comes to the big hills! But, the back thing, maybe I'm too new to know for sure -- you mentioned that you were fitted when you got the bike eight months ago. What I'm wondering, is that in my experience, I've had to have some things changed off and on as I "grow" as a biker. Maybe you need to have the bike guys look at your fit again -- something may have settled, or shifted, either on the bike or on you!

I agree though -- your back is more important in the long term than this ride!

Karen in Boise