Quote Originally Posted by OakLeaf View Post
I'm not going to disagree in general, but I don't think a steep hill on a group ride in heavy traffic is the place to learn new handling skills.

Personally, there is no way I could stay upright below about 2.5 mph, below about 40 rpm, above maybe a 12% grade. It's the strength input and the unfamiliar slope of the frame, rather than the speed per se, that makes it very difficult to stay upright under those conditions.
ummm yeah - and I don't think I suggested any of this... I was not saying that that particular ride was the time or place to practice this skill, nor did the OP say she was trying to go under 2.5 mph...

As far as etiquette goes - I don't think I've ever been on a ride where everyone expects to climb at the same rate... even on a no drop ride, its pretty standard to regroup at the top of hills.

I do think its good to learn how to handle your bike slowly, especially if you ride in groups. You may find yourself in a situation where you are blocked from going around slower people and you just have to deal with it. We had a new gal jump across the yellow line, when a car was coming, on a team ride and tell us it was because she couldn't climb the hill any slower...... She was lucky she didn't get hit, but still couldn't understand why we were so PO'd.