i am thinking of changing one of my bike to a more d/h type machine. I only use it on uplifts at inners etc and for riding in the alps. In the alps i only use the lifts up and bike down. There is the odd (mile or two) ocassion when i have to bike it on the flat.

Currently it has 3 rings at the front (22T, 32T & 44T) with a 9 speed 11 – 34T cassette

i have two options as i see it;

1. Single ring at front with bash and chain device
2. Double ring at front with bash

what would be my best option?
and what size ring (or rings) up front and possibly a different cassette?

i am sure if i understood gear ratios i could work it out myself but i don't!

thanks

sheldons gear calculator will help you.

if you go double 22 36T up front and a normal casette will give you most of the ratios you will want/need.

if single 36T and a 11-32 casette for a spread of gears or 32T and a 11-25 will give you closer ratios and allow a shorter cage mech.