How to avoid cross-chaining?
09-15-07 | 09:57 AM
#26
Overacting because I can
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 4,552
Likes: 0
From: The Mean Streets of Bethesda, MD
Bikes: Merlin Agilis, Trek 1500
I think the 36 inner ring is the best option - I think the jump from 34 to 50 is a bit much. In fact, given that most of us aren't riding pro-tours, I don't understand why most bikes don't come with a 50/36 or a 48/34 (which would be the second best option and get you more in the big ring).
Ignore the comments about toughening up to ride taller gearing - if you're more comfortable spinning or riding a shorter gearing, that's what you should be doing. (If you're training for something specific, like a race, then it obviously makes sense to pay attention to strength and the ability to turn bigger gears. But if this is something you're doing for enjoyment, there's no point in trying to measure up to someone else's abstract view of what a cyclist should be doing.)
Ignore the comments about toughening up to ride taller gearing - if you're more comfortable spinning or riding a shorter gearing, that's what you should be doing. (If you're training for something specific, like a race, then it obviously makes sense to pay attention to strength and the ability to turn bigger gears. But if this is something you're doing for enjoyment, there's no point in trying to measure up to someone else's abstract view of what a cyclist should be doing.)
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“Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm." (Churchill)
"I am a courageous cyclist." (SpongeDad)
“Courage is going from failure to failure without losing enthusiasm." (Churchill)
"I am a courageous cyclist." (SpongeDad)
09-15-07 | 11:11 AM
#27
pan y agua
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 31,810
Likes: 1,232
From: Jacksonville
Bikes: Willier Zero 7; Merlin Extralight; Calfee Dragonfly tandem, Calfee Adventure tandem; Cervelo P2; Motebecane Ti Fly 29er; Motebecanne Phantom Cross; Schwinn Paramount Track bike
I've found that the 50/34 does put the cross over point for me right at the speed at which I tend to cruise.
You cna put a 36 on the front, or put an 11/23 on the back,or just live with shifting between the big and little rings a lot.
You cna put a 36 on the front, or put an 11/23 on the back,or just live with shifting between the big and little rings a lot.
09-15-07 | 11:16 AM
#28
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 6,944
Likes: 853
From: Wilmette, IL
09-15-07 | 11:26 AM
#29
Peloton Shelter Dog
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 90,508
Likes: 32
From: Chester, NY
Bikes: 2017 Scott Foil, 2016 Scott Addict SL, 2018 Santa Cruz Blur CC MTB
I'm old school. I like half step gearing, what I call it anyway. 49-52 chainrings and 14-24 6speed in the rear. This way you use the frt. and rear sprockets in an alternating fashion to move through your gears. Low is around 50 in. and top is 100+ in. But can anybody really turn anything bigger than an 88 for very long anyway. Cant figure why people have 12 tooth sprockets!
https://www.bikeforums.net/road-cycling/343902-steel-retro-idiots.html
09-15-07 | 12:01 PM
#30
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 6,944
Likes: 853
From: Wilmette, IL
