Originally Posted by
Hatsuwr
That's essentially what my results come down to, although with that added point that the middle ring use is going to be (roughly) most effective when using the 15/17/20/23 rear gears, in my specific situation. Also don't use the large/small ring on the wrong side of that range. Personally, I'd go up or down one for short bursts if I'm not planning on using the small or large ring anyway. Should be more efficient and have less wear by not doing that long term though........
For my commuter - I have well defined routes (grade/wind/etc); I found that a 1 x 9 with 44T chainring, 12-36 HG400 cassette with 38-622 tire covered my needs perfectly. My commuting bike only goes to/from work and occasionally around the neighbor hood - so no need to carry things (triple chainring & FD for example) that I'll never need. The 44-36 is sufficient for climbing the steepest grade I encounter from a dead stop (under 101 by SJC airport). 44-12 is sufficient for 15mph tailwind riding.on a crowded bike path.
There is no need for every bike to be able to handle every possible terrain; modify your bike to suit how and where you ride.