i also just started biking this summer. around here, there is this road that is a 5.2 mile hill climb. i think the elevation is about a 1900 ft at the top. anyway, people around here climb it and they like to time themselves. sort of a way of gauging their fitness and progress.

when i first started, i think it took me an hour to go up. then it went to 55 min and now my best time a couple of weeks ago was 49 min.

it is really hard for me. i think some of the grades are around 12 -15 %. but it's a beautiful view when you get to the top -- vineyards and views!

oh, and coming down is fun but almost as much work as going up!

frances