Originally Posted by
LDier
Does anyone out there have a perspective on the Brompton 3 speed regular vs the reduced gearing options for the 3 speed (-12% and -18%)?
I'm hoping to get a Brompton soon, and want to ride it in the Sierra Nevada foothills and in the flats. I'm pretty sure the reduced gearing is what I want rather than the regular geared 3 speed Brompton. But I don't know whether to go for the -12% or the -18% lower gearing.
I'm a little worried that if I get the -18% I may spin out and not be able to go at a decent rate of speed when on the flats in high gear. I do think I would make good use of the low gear though for going up hills in the foothills.
My latest thoughts are to go with a 3 speed just for the simplicity of it.........but picking the right gearing is tough when you can't ride the bikes before ordering. I've ridden the regular geared 3 speed a couple of times and really think the reduced geared bike would suit me mo betta.
Thanks in advance for any input.
Obviously it depends on your fitness and expectations. I'm using 39T (-22%) on my M2R and it spins out easily on flats, but I'm not planning to race it anywhere, as long as it gives me an easier time with hills. I'm pretty unfit (not exactly fat, but sporting a beer belly). I'd imagine most people who are anywhere close to fit would be happier with the -12% (44T) overall.