Originally Posted by
cyccommute
I can't see any "different set of advantages" that 1x and compact double cranks have for many outside of racing. If you know your course, a 1x system can be tuned to take the best advantage of it. But if you are just out riding and encountering very different terrains, the 1x systems fall flat on their face. Most of us don't ride a closed loop all the time and would do better with a multigear system with a wide range.
not just racers, but those of us over here on the East Coast can get away with less gears as well. I doubt I will be taking my mountain bike to actual mountains, and the local trails we have here would be completely suited to a 1x...and stronger riders can and do get away with single speeds as well. My commute could also easily be done on a 1x10, and riding around in the city is often done on a 3 speed or single speed. I don't think I could get away with that so much in Denver. I don't think I'll be changing my Fred Sled over to a 1x system, ever.