Big ring singlespeeding - opinions sought...

[kaiser]

I ride 46 at the front and 14 at the back , it is for road use only .

Whoah thats a big gear

it is ok on the road for commuting and 1 hour ride after work . nothing too hilly though .

Is this 26" or 700c?

 

[orange71]

Yeah I ride 46:14 on the road too, 26" slicks.

 

[Ziggy]

44:21 here

Was out of convenience really - already had a brand new 44t SS chainring sat there...

 

[al]

I have always had a small ring!

But i make up for it with the size of my balls!

36/16 on a good day.

Cheers,Al

 

[Harryburgundy]

38/16 for me...just about a good balance til it gets very hilly

Is there also a thought that bigs rings are better in that more chain is around a ring, better for wear/purchase?

Cheers HB

Al.... :roll: oh dear!

 

[gump]

I feel such a wuss.

Started on a 36:16
too big.. 36:17
better.. 32:17 - bingo!

Easier to spin on the flat than get off on the hills

 

[Ziggy]

Surprised at the results of the poll so far!
I do like the 'big ring' setup though. Looks ok too IMO

 

[FSR-Si]

I think my Gt is running a 46:23 ratio but i couldn't swear on it as it was a Saturday night build

will check tomorrow though

 

[andrewl]

I'd go with whichever combination gives you the ratio you want and correct chain length so that you don't need a tensioner.

Other things to consider (over looks) are:

chain life is longer with larger rings, but
chainring clearance in really techy stuff is better with smaller rings.

 

[velomaniac]

Bigger rear sprocket will give more chain engagement as there are more teeth engaged thus much less likely to slip under load. I have tried a 42:22 instead of the usual 32:16 and i must say it does look better than the smaller cog set up but it does not scream MTB SS but that might change.

Ultimately its all down to your own preference.

Cheers