Originally Posted by Viich

28/9 is a bigger gear than 44/16, not sure where you're getting the numbers - 25/9 should be roughly the same as 44/16 (actually slightly harder) so the 28/9 is a much bigger gear. Almost equivalent to 50/16

The actual bigger-sized chainrings and sprockets are better for the big power of gate starts and slightly less friction losses in the drivetrain. The small rings and "drivers" are to create more clearance for tricks.