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@BringMeMyFix
Hi Merak - Spock was making a 'logical' suggestion, based on your current gut feeling.
However, Sowetto888 makes a good point. 42x16 is about 69", which is a very good everyday gear. You'd only have to spin at 150rpm to do 30mph - acheivable by most people when gravity-assisted, and a sensible speed threshold for urban riding. (I've done over 40mph a few times in the same ratio)
You should also be able (with practice) to grind up 10% climbs in that gear, or even short stretches of 15%, though it would feel very hard going.
If you go for the 15t at the back, you're average speed on the flat is unlikely to change - you'll just pedal more slowly.
And finally, it's often a good idea (for the sake of your knees/muscles) to ride one tooth bigger at the back during the winter, and switch it when the clocks change.