Bicycle Mechanics - Gear ratio ponder

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Bjarkias
07-28-11, 08:36 AM
I'm currently restoring my old DBS Kilimanjaro. I'm almost finished except for the mid front chainring. From what I've gathered it is a 110 mm 5 bolt setup, the rear cassette is a 7spd with 13t as the smallest ring.
Living in Iceland has limited my choice in rings allot. I've managed to find and buy 28t and 46t rings but being forced to order the middle chainring from overseas, I'm wondering if I should get a larger outer ring. 46 - 13 ratio on a 26x2.15 tyre might be a bugger?

Bottom line, I'm looking for a front chainring setup that will get me the most diversity and highest gear ratio without giving me shifting problems.

Links to recommended, affordable chain rings is also much appreciated :)


fietsbob
07-28-11, 09:05 AM
I recommend a stainless steel middle chainring.. they last longer..

QBP Surly brand, a 34t for the 110 BCD. lots of places have QBP accounts.
many ship from web orders..

HillRider
07-28-11, 09:16 AM
A 46x13 with 26" tires is about 92 gear-inches which is a reasonably high gear unless you are quite strong. 100 rpm in that gear is 28 mph (45 kph) which will take a lot of effort on 2.15" MTB tires. The middle ring you order should depend on your riding conditions. How hilly is the area you will be riding in and how much of your riding is off of paved roads? A 34T mid-chainring is almost the smallest you can use on a 110 mm bolt circle(a 33 will fit but they aren't common) and will give a good intermediate range of gears.


Bjarkias
07-29-11, 06:45 AM
Thank you for your replies. I see I have to improve my cadence if I’m supposed to be able to go 45 kph in that gear :D. The terrain is quite hilly but most of my riding is on paved roads.
I'll start looking for a 34t stainless steel chainring :).

BTW, any recommendations on cadence computers? I'd like to be able to see my cadence and speed at once.