Originally Posted by
IthaDan
Me? Big big, because a chain too short make for MUCH more serious problems than a chain whose slack can't entirely be taken up. I want to KNOW for sure that a being caught off guard by a hill doesn't have me risking my RD, wheel and frame.
E: basically what's already been said.
I think it's clearer if we separate the issues of method from the results.
We all agree that anything between the minimum and maximum (or a fudge version of the maximum) is OK.
As for method, the big/big method is safest because it ensures a chain above minimum. However, nothing says this is the best length. As posted, there are advantages to a longer chain, and the small/small method works fine
AS LONG AS you're working within RD capacity.
So for newbies, they should start with big/big and note the maximum number of links they can cut, then use the small/small method to decide how many of those they'll actually cut.
As a rule, those running at or above RD capacity will use the minimum length. Those with capacity to spare, may prefer going longer.