Screw the cog, change the chainring. 46T!
I cannot fathom why they still stock high gears on what are clearly gonna be street bikes.
This is also how we knew "fortynine sixteen" clothes were suspect..
Everyone in dc rides a 46X17-20. It works well for the hills. 49x16 or thereabouts is great for the track but lousy for city riding and especially for brakeless riding. You will find it much easier to learn skills and you will have to spin more, but you will be able to stop. I like mine around 46x18, sixteen is okay but you know, same problems.
also knees are nice...
trust me, risk it. high gearing is more the hallmark of a stock bike than an extreme rider.
(BTW, this is from a lot of experience equipping loads of new and experienced DC area riders, if you don't like it you can send me the chainring).
Salsa man, get a salsa if you can find one that fits your cranks. check the QBP catalog at your local.
Last edited by RedDeMartini; 04-12-06 at 01:30 PM.