Originally Posted by
sac02
Both my FG are intentionally geared somewhat low, because my knees much prefer it when I spin instead of mash. IMO 52x16 is realllllly high (88 gear inches), especially if you have a hill on your route.
As Botto pointed out, the 52 chainring is better for making hipsters say, "My, what a big gear you have!"
Mac
I totally agree re: 52 x 16, as indicated by my struggles, noted in the original post. However, the 52t up front is there because it was the quick and cheap way to get the bike on the road in time for the winter commute. Trust me, I'm long past the chainring envy period in my life, if such a period ever occurred. Bottom line is that the 52 x 18 is a nice, comfortable setup for me at this time. Whether I have time to mess with different combinations over the winter remains to be seen.