Should be fine. I use a chain tensioner with my Alfine with a 34/48. For me a Rohloff alone would probably be more than enough, but with the 8 speed Alfine, the extra gears are very useful for climbing and the high top end is also nice going down hills. I was actually born in Tulsa, and broke in this set up there last month actually. If you ride on the river ever then I can say that on the west side of the river going up those three hills before 71st I need the 34t with the Alfine. I haven't had to use the 34t since I have come home to Germany, but I plan on taking on the hills here once I get over my cold..they are quite a bit more intense than in Tulsa so I think the 34t will really come in handy.