Mountain Biking - SS Gearing

Im seriously considering making the ole Diamondback an SS(*sigh* on the bandwagon note), but ive, quite frankly, got no idea where to start on the gearing.
I ride mostly DH, with the occaisional lowly trail ride as a wind down.
Also, is it possible to run 3x1? Or 2x1? Just for something different.
Id like to be able to do this with minimum cash too, if it helps.

Im seriously considering making the ole Diamondback an SS(*sigh* on the bandwagon note), but ive, quite frankly, got no idea where to start on the gearing.
I ride mostly DH, with the occaisional lowly trail ride as a wind down.
Also, is it possible to run 3x1? Or 2x1? Just for something different.
Id like to be able to do this with minimum cash too, if it helps.

For general trail usage running 26" wheels, a 32x16 works prett well. If you're going to be doing a lot of climbing, and want to do it ON the bike, you may want to try a 32x18. I don't do any downhill that I first haven't climbed, so perhaps you'll want an even taller gear for your DH specific stuff.

If I understand what you mean by 3x1 and 2x1, you cannot use multiple chain rings with a single cog in the back as the chain length will change. Is that what you meant, or are you still referring to gearing?

... Brad

Yeah, i meant multiple chainrings. Thanks, will steer clear from that on the drawing board.

And yes, im running 26" rims. If i was running 29s i'd have to ditch all traces of gears, and sell my 150mm suspension fork for a rigid :rolleyes:
Thanks for your help bac.
Any other suggestions, or is this guy gospel so far?

As bac said, 32x18 is a good place to start. It really depends on the type of terrain you ride. If the climbs/descents are long and not too steep, you way want to run a bigger gear, like a 42x18 so you don't have to rely entirely on gravity to get you down. If your climbs are steeper, then a 32x20 will be a better choice.

In Massachusetts where the hills roll quite a bit I found 32x16 to be a tad too tall. I'd go with the 18 in the rear.

Have ou considered running a single chainring with a derailleur and cassette in back. Or would this defeat the purpose? It's what I'd do if there are truly serious hills you want to get up.