I spend a lot of time riding in the forth hilliest city in the US. We have over 40 climbs that I call thigh burners with grades of 15% - 33%. I run a 50/34 - 11/32 and have never not made it up a climb. I weigh 225 lbs. so not the lightest rider on the block. I don't use the zig zag method, because for me the quickest way up is a straight line. Besides I kind of like the suffering, but that's just me, have fun.