Update!
After exhaustively researching every damm crank, chainring, and pedal combination... I went to my LBS and picked up everything in one fell swoop.
AND they had it all in black. LBS FT(super)W.
Picked up a decent Shimano 9-speed chain to make sure everything runs smooth. 44 & 48T 3/32 chainrings, 165 crank with a free 1/8 frisbee already on it. A decent set of metal pedals with a metal toe and black leather straps. Switched out the lugged Raleigh fork for a nice, modern welded fork to get the headset to fit. It's a bit long, I'll have to get it cut before install but there's tons of thread. Wheels should be here today, hells yeah.
Originally Posted by
milkcratebasket
Since cyclists' legs are most efficient over a narrow range of pedaling speeds (cadence), a variable gear ratio helps a cyclist to maintain an optimum pedaling speed while covering varied terrain.
I agree. By inefficient I meant the variable gear system (derailer, chain tensioner, chain slack) robs the drivetrain of energy. Drive gear directly to driven gear (rear wheel) is the most efficient method to put power to the ground outside of a unicycle or penny farthing.
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