Originally Posted by
MichaelW
I used to ride a 1x5 system, that was how the bike came. The chainring teeth were unramped and there was no keeper or guard.
I think modern chains may have more lateral movement than chains of old, has anyone tested for this?
1x8 or 1x9 systems can provide enough gear range for rolling terrain without steep hills. The chainset is much lighter and cleaner with fewer dirt traps. There is nothing wrong with the concept as long as you can get it to work reliable with modern components.
Fit unramped rings, a chainkeeper device or some plastic chainring guards.
Once you fit a chainkeeper and/or bashguards, most of your weight savings is gone.
1x5 or 6 is more reliable b/c chainline doesn't vary so widely. You're more likely to drop the chain at the upper- or lower-extremes of a 8, 9, or 10speed cassette.
There's no doubt in my mind that a 1x__ will provide enough
range. The thing is, many ppl question the need for a double crank and a front derailer, b/c they feel they don't need the extra range. I feel like they need those items to
keep their chain on the rings; the added range is just the icing on the cake.
If you like "clean lines" and "simplicity", get a SS or a FG. IGHs are nice, too. If you like derailers, I see no reason to forgego the front one, as you'll need to clutter and ballast the bike with other crap to keep the chain on anyway.