Originally Posted by
HillRider
This is the part I don't understand. If you want lower gears, why not use the 39T chainring more? A 52/23 combination is the same as a 39/17 combination and gives you several lower gears beyond that.
I understand the need for lower gears for climbing but you should make better use of what you already have.
Because I can't climb the hills withe lowest gear the 39 offers, not even close. Even on the commute home with my panniers on with my laptop and other gear I could use lower gears on the one medium size hill that I have right before I get home.
For general riding, we have some big hills in CA. Many of the century type rides go over these hills. The 59-23 is when it is flat and no headwind.