I fully intend to do hills, but I think I'll pass on "big mountains" right at first. But seriously, I really loved the longer rides and the more interesting routes have hills, no getting around it. (I used to like hills, actually... Sick, huh? Older now, we'll see.) I will have to gradually build up to anything challenging, and I want to make it as enjoyable as possible.

So the term "compact double" means "compact", in that you're not getting the granny gears? If that's true, then I have my answer. I also wondered about the geometry and ... what Susie said. Thanks!