Originally Posted by
oldacura
Has anyone tried to integrate a Sram Eagle system to a tandem?
My understanding is that it is a 1 x 12 with a range of 10t - 50t.
It seems like this would solve a lot of range problems and completely eliminate a front derailleur. With a 48t or 50t chainring, one could get both a pretty high top end with a pretty low bottom end.
What compromises would be involved?
I don't think 48x50 is low enough for me, at least if I have any hills at all. My mtb tandem has a 26/36 double on the front, 11-46 cassette. I have a 2nd wheelset for paved road riding and the low gear, 26x46, is not too low. The high gear, 36x11, is high enough for gravel but not enough for paved roads. 48x11 might be high enough, but I have an old road tandem with 60x12, and that seems like a good ratio for high gear on pavement.
1x11 or 1x12 works, more or less okay, for mtb and gravel, where you can dial in the low end of the gearing by changing the size of the front chain ring. This leaves you lacking a higher gear, but I seldom want to power downhill at max speed when I might hit a pothole or other obstacle. I find it safer to use the brakes and be able to maintain the helmet up/rubber down orientation.