I just built my first single speed with a 42/16 gear. At first I experimented with a 48/38/28 triple in front, matched to the 16 rear with a Melvin tensioner to take up the slack. Initially I thought 42/16 would be too low a gear on the street. But I live in a hilly area and don't think I could climb in anything bigger - at least not for now. Although I'm coasting more of the descents I seem to get to work in the same time as on a multi-geared bike. I guess because I make up the time grinding up the hills in a higher gear. Whatever. I'm having a blast on the single. Life is complicated, bikes shouldn't be. DanO