Originally Posted by
Machka
Why do tourers have a smaller big chainring? So they can handle a variety of terrain with a heavily laden bicycle. A 50T on a loaded touring bicycle is next to useless.
I have to disagree with you Machka. If I am using an evenly stepped crankset, then I like the 48 tooth front ring. But on my Miyata, I have a 50 tooth big ring with half stepping and a granny gear and I love it. With half step gearing it is awesome at finding the right gear.