Originally Posted by
djlarroc
My bike came w/a standard 53/39. I've been riding it for about 3 mos and while I've been doing ok, I'm still considering going to to a compact.
I have not ran into anything yet, that's caused me to get off and walk, but some climbs have given me quite a fight.
I'm not sure whether to tuff it out w/the standard as hopefully it will just make me a stronger rider, or go for the compact. I know I can also change my 11-25 cassette, but I think the compact will make the bigger impact if I decide to change.
Who rides what and do you see yourself changing?
What did you ride before, if anything? That, and
this gear calculator, should help you figure out what has worked in the past.
If this is your first road bike, I'd suggest the compact. More versatile, as described above.
FWIW, I ride a 50/34 compact and 12-27 cassette, and usually climb a lot. Works for me...