^ (He's a racer) Let me say as a non-racer, non-hill-bomber he's right. My latest choice was an 11-25 based on whim (it's not all that critical). 8-speed but the same principles apply. Mostly flat rides but some hills of course. I never use the 11 except in the small ring, which is not the best practice anyway. To be honest, the 12 isn't all that necessary either. I just wouldn't make the 11 cog a requirement unless you have a specific need for it.