Originally Posted by
rydabent
Make sure it is at least an 8 speed.
Yep. A few weeks ago, I borrowed a Catrike 700 for a moderately hilly ride. The owner had it set up for fast flatland riding, with a 42/23 low gear. My legs were fried after 30 miles of horsing that thing up 8 and 10% grades at 30 rpm. Almost had to make the 'call of shame.'
8 speeds is suitable for flat rides, but throw in any hills at all and even 16 will be totally inadequate.