Originally Posted by
Rflee
Yes I need more time in hills but I have some serious hills. Some I'd imagine are certainly 20%. But I'm 5'4" 130lbs. And I'm in decent shape. I've read many posts on how so many don't like the compact double and want a little higher gear for climbing and it was exactly what I had been thinking. I'm sure a 28t would help but if I could squeeze a 30t or even better a 32t with moderate costs I'd like to do it.
20% hills are intense, but relatively rare, or frequently only steep for short sections.
I know that a lot of smaller women like triple gearing on the crankset, so it may well be that both the smaller riders, as well as the super-heavy riders benefit most from the low gears.
I have heard that derailleur maximum cassette sizes and wrap may be conservative. So if you wish to try the x-30T rear cassette, then you may just choose to first buy the cassette. See how it works on your bike. If it fits without the derailleur rubbing, then you may be just fine.
Oh, also buy a new chain as a short chain is a recipe for accidental damage.
I believe that one can pedal somewhat higher gearing on hills when using foot retention (toe clips, clipless, etc).