Will talk of 1×9 and Alfine setups filling my head, I decided to have a short ride in the Middle ring.

Conclusions

Usually my legs fail before my Lungs. This time it was the other way around

I can get up the same stuff

I am seriously fat and unfit, however

Im new to flats and lower RPM means I dont bouce out of the pedals so much

Any other 1×9 virgins?

Yup, had the first ride last week as 1×9, although as I am truly fat and unfit I went for a 28t ring on an 11-34 on a 29er. Figured that as I rarely use anything but middle on my trails, with occasional granny, I wouldn't be losing much.

In reality, it was great. No hassles and it meant winching up some of the steep stuff pushing a bigger gear. Duh! Failed a couple of times but figure I'll get stronger.

I do seem to have developed a dreadful crackng/clonking noise & feeling through the drivstrain however. Not sure what the hell that is, hoping a new cassette and chain will fix it!