Hi,

I converted a Schwinn LeTour from the 80's to a singlespeed, and need some help with the gearing. It currently has a 52T chainring in the front, and 17t singlespeed cog in the rear. It it fine for flat terrain, but where I live has a lot of hills. In order to get the bike to go up the hill, i tend to pull up on the handlebars, and wound up hurting my shoulder. Would switching the rear cog to a 20t make a significant difference? This would probably involve shortening the chain too, right? Thanks,

Dave