Originally Posted by
edwong3
It's possible to get a higher gear ratio by going with a larger chainring and then either go with a freewheel (or cassette, whichever is the case) such as an 11 to 32 if it works with the small 16 inch wheel. Or use a double chainring setup and get a wide range gearing that way. There are always solutions to every challenge.
Big chainring: Oh of course, but ones big enough to make a difference with a 349 wheel, typically gets into exotic parts, they make them, but expensive, and, on what is typical now, max 16 tooth jump, compromises the low ring size. Going from an 11 to 9 cog is a bigger percentage difference, if you can do it. I was set on going to a triple 52/42/30, but when that wouldn't package (FD would not go in far enough due to FAT seat tube), I found the 50/34 on 110BCD, gets me almost as much range, fits, and fantastic deal for hollowtech II style with external BB bearings, $75. Just love it.