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Old 05-30-13, 11:56 AM
  #268  
redlude97
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Originally Posted by Miller2
All this is very confusing...I cant decide which way to go. Seems like there isnt enough difference between a 36 (which I have) and a 34 when coupled with a 12-28. I have a 52 and was going to go back to a 50 and all I think I'll really gain from that is a little easier gearing on small to medium grades and a loss of overall speed. It might cut my quads some slack though....
I would say there is a huge difference between a 34 and 36 for the strong recreational rider. 3 major things:
1. The 34x13 maxes out around 24.5 mph@120rpm. The 36x13 gets you to 26mph.
2. At 90rpm, the 34x13 is only going 19mph, while the 36x13 gets you up to 20mph, the magical flat cruising speed for most recreational cyclists.
3. Shifts between the big and small ring usually require 1 less shift, for the 34 often times you need 2-3 shifts to get a similar gear, while with the 36t you only need 1-2.
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