I have a standard 21 speed, my commute home (SF East Bay) has a 15% grade for part of the 300ft gain, even with the gears its still fairly intense. I don't mind

I have a standard 21 speed, my commute home (SF East Bay) has a 15% grade for part of the 300ft gain, even with the gears its still fairly intense. I don't mind too much since its on my way home but I'm definitely tired when I get home. I can see a lot of people not wanting to deal with this, especially if they have other commitments after work.