Originally Posted by
mihlbach
2/1 on a 29er is not the same as 2/1 on a 26er. On a 29er its going to be a higher due to the larger wheel. The standard 2/1 ratio commonly recommended for SSMTBing is for 26ers. The equivalent ratio on a 29er is going to be less than 2/1.
Correct.
If you want to figure out equivilent gear ratios between 26" and 29" wheels, google "gear inches", or look it up on Sheldon. ...or just add two teeth to a 'niner.
Singlespeed mountain biking is a blast! The same type connection you get riding fixed on pavement, but off road. You find yourself immersed in the trail and anticipating. You learn to be a much better climber, improve your cadence and endurance, and, if riding rigid, greatly improve your line choice. It also helps you to be a much stronger rider, allowing you to push higher gears on your geared bike, and rocking your quads, calves, biceps, and lats from standing and climbing all the time. It will help you to become a better overall rider.
As for gears, I start at 38/19 or 38/20 and go from there. The 2:1 on a 26 advice is a pretty good starting place, but adjust it as you need. As you get stronger and learn to conserve your momentum you will probably go to a smaller freewheel.
Above all, have fun.
-Rob.