Originally Posted by
devilshaircut
I ride 49:13 and I like it. For me, and perhaps this is personal, I think a 42t chainring is just tooooooo small. Even in Atlanta, as hilly as it is, I prefer a higher gearing so I can soar. Even so, I still spin out on some downhills.
You probably want something like 46:16. Not too high, not too low. A lot of people I know find that ratio very comfortable. And you wouldn't need to get a new cog.
WORD. I live in Seattle (hilly) and switch between 46:16 and 46:17. high enough for flat and downhill, low enough for hill climbs. boo, too much of a good thing. hooray, moderation!