GrumpyGregry
Here for rides.
Well. Since you ask, I bought the bike in August '11, I am just getting back into cycling after a break of about 60 years (that's right 60).
It very probably is a lack of fitness and strength, but at the age of 77, which way is my fitness and strength going to go?
I am enjoying my cycling and I would like to be able to get up more hills before I have to get off and walk.

feel free to fit as large a cassette and rear mech as you like, and I bet in six months time you won't be using the granny ring at all.