Originally Posted by
Retro Grouch
I don't understand why you think that converting the front to a 48/34 or even a 48/32 would be such an expensive option. It looks to me like it would only involve replacing the two front chainrings. Depending on how your chain was sized originally you MIGHT need a little longer chain. that would give you both an easier hill climb gear and a little faster flat road gear.
What's your favorite flat road gear with no wind? If I could duplicate that with a 48/15 to 48/19, that's what I would definitely do.
I reckon that to change the 2 rings would cost around £85. I think it would probably need a new chain at about £15 and also probably a front derailleur at around £30. I have not checked those costs properly - or even confirmed the need for the derailleur - but I don't think it would be far off that cost.
On this bike, my favourite gearing is the 46 x 13. I have not checked out a road bike.