Running 32T AB Ovals (one Cinch, one 104BCD) on two bikes because of the possible knee pain benefits (you’ll try anything when you’re in pain!) and loving it. Since they’re the same cost as normal ones I thought I’d give it a go but I’m quite sure there’s a performance benefit both on climbs, when going flat out and when you’re tired and flagging.
Flat out it feels like there’s a “momentum mash” build up that you can sustain easier. It’s weird. I’ve used the 11T more than I ever did with the 32T round ring.
Climbs is two factor for me. I wasn’t able to spin well for every climb where I live with a 36T rear but with the 42T I can spin much better and I’ve found I’m actually getting quicker to the top and can continue at the top with the 42 until I recover enough to click some more gears instead of stopping for a breather.
It’s a bail out gear that I’m appreciating more and more when the legs slow down too much and the oval feels like the dead spot is just easier to pass through.
Flat pedals for me and something I read said that ovals carry more benefits with flats than for clip less (never tried clip less and don’t care to as I feel fine on flats). 160 and 140 bikes. Shimano XT 11 speed 42 rear ends.
Stayed on and span up a climb during a race yesterday that in October I pushed up because it was quicker to push than struggle on the 36T rear.
I could just be thinking it feels better to please my purchasing new parts habit and nowt really changed. Placebo effect?!