Hey now,

I've got both a road bike and a 'bent - a Lightning Phantom. I live in the Santa Cruz mountains area, and...well...there are mountains here. I like the Phantom in that because it is a short wheel base recumbent with the crank fairly high up off the ground, it climbs hills surprisingly well. It's almost like doing leg presses to go up a hill. You just push against the seat back.

My husband rides a Lightning P-38 recumbent, which is an even better hill climber. He has never had any problems keeping up with me when I am on my road bike - in fact, I have trouble keeping up with him.

Good luck in your search!

-j