Originally Posted by
oldguy387
How many REALLY use the front deraileur? I ride a Trek 7.3 FX (24 speed) and find that I can keep the chain on the high gear sprocket and just use the nr. 3/4/5 rear cogs for most of my riding. Am I riding/using my bike correctly? I am 62 and not out for speed. Thanks.
For puttering around its what ever appeals to you. If you like a fast pace then you'll use them all. I use all the ratios (which is different than all the gears) available even in the N Florida rolling hills as I like to keep moving as fast as I can and never coast unless I've over-run my highest gear. It has little to do with age (I'm 70), more with how one likes to ride.
The age factor though makes lower gearing more effective, so I gear my bikes lower than a younger fit person might want. Casual bikers tend to pedal too slowly. A cadence of around 80 will be less fatiguing for the same speed & distance than 50 to 60 once you train for it. It also provides a better cardio workout. I ride typically around 90.
Al