I've got a Raleigh Rush Hour that I ride as a fixie throughout Chicagoland (flat). I was thinking about regearing to get my accelleration to be a bit better, right now it's a 48 in front and 15 in back. Would it be better to go to a 17 in back, or a smaller sprocket? I like using more torque and don't have an overly fast cadence at 20mph, but better startup times would be nice.

Also, is it easier to brake with a lower gearing? I think one major problem I'm having (and thus rely on hand brakes more than I'd like to) is that I'm not getting enough stopping power due to my gears.

Thoughts are appreciated. Thanks.

-vxla

Assuming I can find a chain to fit it, I'm switching my Rush Hour to 48x17 this weekend when I build up my new Rob Roy as a commuter. I'll let you know what's like, but it should make accelerating and braking easier.

I'm doing the same thing in the next few days...As soon as one stupid bike shop in nyc gets a chainwhip in stock...

i went down to 42x15 on my rush hour. the new chainring was $15, and the chainring bolt tool was $4. i picked up a new BMX chain ($7), shortened it, and that was it.

39X15 here