it gets me up but with a fair bit of effort from myself, which is a shock after such an effortless commute up to that point. on reflection maybe i should have gone for something else, 3 gears would have been perfect, a lower one for the hill, higher one for the flats, seem to be able to ride past assistance easily enough, just the legs spinning too fast. maybe the hill will get easier in time, as thats about the only bit of journey requiring effort. although if i went up the hill too easily i would be missing part of the reason for buying a bike, getting fitter. perhaps i should stop moaning and get on enjoying the ride.