I have one bike with 44 and one with biopace 48 and there is definitely a difference. The thing to keep in mind is what your primary terrain is. If you have flatter terrain or extended downhills, the higher gear can have an advantage. If the hills are sharper or steeper a 44 will be decent. The place where the higher gearing can be nice is descending hills. A couple mph faster on the top end if your legs can push it.