I agree Eden
I don't think she's being rude or whatever the CaliSunshine reference referred to.

If Liz had experience in another endurance sport... or used low gearing... or is young and fit... then I can understand much more.

Thats why I posed my wonderings, because from my perspective - middle-aged, on a compact, only 2 years on the bike... I don't think I could do even one of Le Tour "hills"...

Looking forward to you popping back, Liz