Tandem Cycling - Gear Ratio Again

Bikeforums.net is a forum about nothing but bikes. Our community can help you find information about hard-to-find and localized information like bicycle tours, specialties like where in your area to have your recumbent bike serviced, or what are the best bicycle tires and seats for the activities you use your bike for.



PDA

View Full Version : Gear Ratio Again

rmac
09-06-06, 12:01 PM
I have found that the jumps between a 11-34 9sp cassette to be too large and we never used the 11. So, I changed from 30-42-52 chainrings and 11-34 9sp cassette to 26-38-48 chainrings and an 11-27 10sp cassette for hills and an 11-23 10sp for flat rides.

The result shifts great with road derailleurs. I know that gearing is very individual but except for a low top end am I missing something with this combination? Any suggestions?

galen_52657
09-06-06, 12:36 PM
I don't understand the need for a 52 or 53/11 either. It's a flat-land sprinting gear on a single (though most 'club' riders are better served by a 12). I don't sprint on my tandem. Also, how much pedaling does one do going down hill? Once you are coasting at 45 + MPH what is the use?

I am running a 53/12 top gear and only occasionally use the 12.
robmitchell
09-06-06, 02:58 PM
I agree.
I switched out my 11-34 for a 12x28 and we were both happier with the gearing options.
The 12-28 was an IRD cassette that shifts well.

I missed the 11 once or twice but just opted to coast and enjoy it.

Rob