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....
Not addressing your point about 36t chainrings, but they have the advantage that, when paired with a 50t large ring, the 14t difference makes for nicer front shifting.