I never know if this counts, because I'd have to do the math and I'm not interested, or I'm too lazy. But this has worked for me here in the NH mountians (although I have intentionally avoided some hills). 47-42 chain rings with a 15-29, 5 speed freewheel on a NR RD. It's not the best set up.





As you can see the NR does not really care to be stretched to such limits.

I'm planning to try a 6 speed Ultra freewheel, set up as 14-16-19-23-26-34 using a Eco DuoPar RD. At the same time I could change the crankset. I have new or nearly new 51, 50, 49, 48, 47, 46, 44 & 42 tooth chainrings. Also the free wheel is a Suntour perfect and I have a great supply of cogs so can build it with any gear combination from 13 to I believe a 38 or 40.

I'd love suggestions!