Gears for Fears

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

By Scott Fitzgerald

“What gearing should I get on my road bike?” Riders are now faced with three options for the number of teeth on their front chain rings: standard (53/39), compact (50/34) and triple (52/39/30).  On one hand, a triple has the most appeal because of the wide range of gearing. But, along with these options come finicky shifting, extra weight and increased spacing between the feet.

For most locals, a standard double setup is out of the question because Teton Pass looms off in the distance. So, is compact the solution? Four years after the advent of compact and countless amounts of feedback, I can honestly say – compact rules for almost everyone!

But, there are some tricks to make it even more appealing. If you need easier gears, swap the rear cassette for one with 27 teeth instead of 25. This will give you 33.3 gear inches compared to only 31.7 for the easiest gears on a triple – about one gear harder.

If you need harder gears for speed, have your shop replace the 12-tooth cog in the rear for an 11. This will give you more speed (120.1 gear inches) compared to the standard double setup (116.7).  Stop doubting – get the compact.


PERMALINK:
Gears for Fears | Planet JH News Article: Single Track Mind

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