Originally Posted by
jralbert
.... So: with a wide enough cassette, wouldn't it simplify the drivetrain a lot to run a fixed front ring and remove the front derailleur and shifting assembly altogether? I know there's got to be a good reason why not, I just don't know what that reason is...
I ran my commuter for a year that way, with an 11-30 cassette so I say yes, it has all the advantages you suggest. Sheds some weight too.
"commuter" is relevant: I had all the gears I wanted for that particular route. On more varied terrain or with a group some higher and lower gears are handy. The other disadvantage being the larger differences between gears which is difficult for those who like to keep a particular cadence going. Like OP for instance.