How much of a difference would dropping from ~71 to 68 gear inches make? The original chainring on my IRO crankset is getting pretty worn and is needing replacement along with the chain. I'm thinking about going from a 46T to 44T. I'd like to do this mainly because it gets pretty effing windy here and I'm sick of trudging along at 15 mph into the wind. Plus, I'd like to improve my spin.

not a major major difference, but enough for you to feel it. Go for it, I just went from 73 to 69 and dig it, much nicer for commuting imho.

it won't make a huge difference, but you will feel it, and i bet you'll like it.

Go for it, especially if if you're due for a new ring and chain anyway. I went up from 46x17 to 48x17 recently. It does make a difference.

I switched from 44x16 [~74"] to 44x18[~66"]. Best thing I ever done. Spinning is the bee's knees.

i've lowered my gearing twice and it just keeps gettin' better and better. i went from 48x18 to 46x18 to 46x20. I think i've settled into this one...but who knows?

I'm rocking 40x17 right now I switched from 48x17 and at first it was really weird but I am beginning to like it alot but I still think its a bit too low for around here(super flat) I'm thinking about going up to a 44 up front