Bob_Benner

I am really enjoying my S/S MTB on the street. I need advice on gearing. Right now I am running a 32 front with a 14 rear. I find it to be comfortable on flats and I can still pedal okay on downhills, but climbing is a little bit of a pain right now. I know I need to get my body used to riding again, but does anyone have a good front/rear combination they can suggest I try. Should I go a little higher in the front, maybe a 34, or 36 or go back to a 16 tooth rear ? Any help would be great.

noisebeam

If you have a 16 handy, put it on and use it until you get stronger. Or keep the 14 on and you will get stronger - you say climbing is a pain, not that it is impossible, so keep it up.
Al

Aeroplane

Going higher in front will only make it harder. If you tried the 16 cog, and didn't like it, and the 14 is too much, maybe a 15 would work?

naifian

i use this link a lot when figuring out gearing: https://www.sheldonbrown.com/gears/. i know it helps me a lot to be able to think in gear inches instead of pure gear ratios.

Plow Boy

Here's my current setup ye old hardtail: 32 on the crank and 18 free/17 fix. I spin like hell with the 18/17 combo until the trail goes up or becomes technical. I rather spin than mash with knobby tires.

max-a-mill

i'd say a 2:1 ratio would be good for a combo of on/off road riding.

i'd go higher (your ratio actually sounds good for the street) for the street and lower for dirt (i use a 34x20 but many lighter/fitter people go up to a 2:1 ratio for off-road).

zziggy12

If you are going to ride strictly on the street, try some more street oriented tires. Different tires will really improve your ride. I have schwalbe super motos on my bike now. I rode the NYC Century with a set of Specialized Slicks.

You will be able to ride higher gear ratio also, with street tires. I usually have my bike set-up with 44-18 or 52-18 to ride the street. The area around NYC is pretty flat.

LóFarkas

I wouldn't gear down from 32/14 for street riding. Rather up. 38/14 or so. Climbing is meant to be difficult, that's why you're on a ss, and that's why it's rewarding when you reach the top As long as you can get up on top without ruining your knees, it's good.