Originally Posted by
Bluechip
I use the small ring most of the time here near Houston too. A 39/14 is almost 22mph at 100rpm with a couple of gears left. That takes care of most of my riding. I remember being yelled at during a crit many years ago for being in the small ring. And that was when most cranksets were 52/42. I just ignored him and rode on.
I wouldn't yell at you but I would point out that you'd be better off in the big ring for crits and for Houston riding a 50/34 might be more appropriate.