I've been a roadie for many years.  Last year I got back into mtn biking, but I still have my road bike and ride it several times each week.  You can't beat the convenience of it since you can walk out your front door and ride, and it's a more consistent workout than the mtn option.  Wish I could walk out my front door and waterski!!

A couple of waterski sets in the morning before work is still the best way to start a day IMO, however, a good road bike ride would probably be the second best way to start the day, and due to convenience that's the one I do most often!

Granted I am biased, but Utah rocks!!  I've got endless options by way of outdoor activities here.  Moab is fun for many things...you should do it some day.

I love riding hills on the bike too! We have a highway here outside of Springfield called the "Ozark Mountain High Road" and its only 7.2 miles long but its got 6 monster hills in it...  Its a scenery highway built to cut from 65 to historic highway 76 outside of Branson.  About twice a month i hit that route and ride it down and back, 14.4 miles with 12 climbs (6 in and 6 out) and some huge descents, you can get the bike up to 45-50mph on them, its a rush!  Tour of Missouri used this route as its time trial a few years back and the pro riders complained about how steep it was!

Essvar, you are da man! That's an impressive workout regime.  200 miles a week is some serious time in the saddle.  I worked out all winter (including riding when the temp was in the teens) and my first couple of sets felt really good this year.  However, unlike you I WAS SORE the next day...actually the next couple of days:/