Originally Posted by
prtyich
What does it mean that the Dahon Speed TT has a gear ratio from 30" to 131", and the Vitesse P18 from 31" to 96"?
It heads the Speed TT will go faster, but both climb hills about the same
Why is there such a large discrepancy on the top end - is that because the TT has 27 gears and the P18 has only 18?
Partly. Though you can design a large range or more gear inches with less total number of gears. However typically more gears means more options both for climbing and for speed.
If so, does that mean that the TT is a far faster bike since, the last 9 gears are harder to pedal, but will drive the bike faster?
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Pretty much. Depends on your ability to pedal that, riding position, drag, etc as well. But all things equal more gear inches=faster bike to a point.