Originally Posted by
Don777
The 30 chain ring, at the present time is way too small but I would like to keep it for the future. I have looked at all of the gear ratio calculators and I think I would better off with a 38t/39t as a middle chain ring.
I found a ramped/pinned 39t (SRAM 39T x 130mm BCD Triple Alloy Ring Black) that supposedly is compatible with a Truvativ/SRAM crankset.
The instruction manual I found
here states that the 42 t middle has shifting pins and is suited to be a middle ring, while the 38 and 39 t rings do not have the pins and are not suited to be a middle. What this means is that front shifting will not be as fast or sure as your current setup. But it will work to a degree, and if you are in the 38 or 39t gear most of the time anyway, this may not be an issue.
So, I think that this is doable, and well suited for your type of riding. Also, remember: after about age 20, we are ALL declining. And we all fall into one of two categories. The first accepts the decline and has less fun. The other goes out and does something to slow the decline. Happy riding.
BTW, my physical therapist wife and fitness coach son both are after me to work on my leg and core strength. So squats and core exercises (look up bird dog and dying bug exercises). If your doc oks it, you may find that doing strength stuff allows you to go faster on your bike, in a higher gear, with more ease. But check with the doc first!