Originally Posted by
trailflow1
Only the big/big combo would likely be unusable. That combo is easily avoided.
I would advise against ever running a too-short chain. If you forget and try to shift into that combination, and you will eventually, you can do serious damage to your drivetrain and possibly your frame, before you know it. Always test this by slowly turning the cranks by hand and carefully shifting; STOP if you start to strain anything and remedy the situation before riding the bike.