Assuming a relatively small cog in the back (11 or 12), a 44 in the front would probably serve me 80% of the time. However, I like to pedal out of the saddle a lot and the 44 would not allow me to maintain a proper cadence for more than a few hundred feet. It all depends on your style I guess. I like to ride out of the saddle for long stretches (miles at a time in the flats) and of course for climbing but others hate it. Something to consider for your style?