Originally Posted by
Ataylor
Couple questions for you guys. First, what exactly are the benefits (if any) of having closely-spaced ratios? I've heard that there's a wider space in between the cogs for something like the 11/34T than there is with the 11/25T or 28T, correct? If so, does that translate to a noticeably quicker (or perhaps "snappier") shift?
The other thing is, I've heard people mention that you should stay away from gears that you don't need. I ride on flats like 98% of the time, so does it make "sense" for me to have a 50/34 crank with an 11/32 cassette? Or is there a "better" configuration? I mean I know this is super subjective, but I wonder if anyone could at least guide me in the right direction. Perhaps a 28T is better suited for someone mainly on flats? Or is there more to it than that?
Not sure anyone commented on the thread title question -
Closely-spaced ratios = quicker shift?
Yes, you get quicker, smoother shift if the sprockets on the cassette are one or two tooth difference. Usually you notice the longer time it takes for the shift to the biggest sprocket which most people have extra large by several cogs (like in your case the 32 one) relative to the one before it, also you notice it more if you have the old friction shifting on DT. It takes a little bit for the chain to get lifted on that much bigger sprocket, similar to front shifting which is not as easy or smooth due to big difference in chainrings.
For the second part, no it doesn't make sense to have 32 sprocket on your cassette, that is a huge gear even if you ride in a moderate hilly place. Basically if you don't ever use it, consider getting another cassette, benefit will be that your gears will have smaller steps gear to gear as you shift.
I am the opposite of what you have, I happen to still ride an older bike with the 52/40 and 13/23 cassette in a moderate hilly place with some bigger hills. The cassette is actually 8 speed 13/26 but I can't shift to the largest sprocket because then the RD would start rubbing against wheel spokes and that is asking for a trouble. SO effectively my 8 speed cassette is 7 speed and on the bigger hills, I sometimes ride a bit and then walk the rest.
