I'm a Junior Cyclist, i am going to do to some races, mostly after april through september.

However due to restrictions specifically for juniors, it is required that I have a downgraded set up for my drive train.

I have two options which I personally prefer. I can have a 52-teeth chainring with a 14-25 cassette in the back, or I can have a 45-Teeth chainring with a standard 12-26/etc.

Outside of racing, i do a lot of climbing, and i like to stay in my 50-teeth chainring during long stretches of flats. I do practice sprinting a lot as well.

Can anybody tell me what gear set-up would most likely be suitable for sprinting (out of the two) and what do you think would be best for just riding on flats?

Also: I want to know if i need to alter my chain. My current drivetrain includes a triple crankset 50-39-30, and cassette is 12-26. Would i need add/remove links to the chain for a 52-39-30, with a 14-25, or a 45-39-30 with a 12-26?


Thanks, Dom