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This is all new to me, I'm building a SS bike just for my commute to work along the canal, so mostly flat apart from a bridge or two and this:
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I've currently got a 44t and 36t chainring and 19t sprocket. I want to maintain a reasonable pace but not arrive at work sweating like a trooper. Just wondering what gear setup more experienced people would use. Also, would a 36t chainring to 16t sprocket have the same ratio as 44t to 19t?.
My ss is 32/16 and occasionally when I take it along the river here it is actually a really nice ratio. I'm able to keep a nice pace without struggling - keeping a high cadence is also very good for you. The pathways along here aren't smooth though and are gravely with potholes - it may be too spinny on smooth pathways..
I personally run a 36:16 off-road (it's very flat here). That hill in the foto looks like it would easily be doable with that ratio, but on the flats you'll spin out at about 20-25kph.
For comparing ratios, try [url= http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gears/ ]Sheldon Brown[/url].
How big are yer wheels?
I use 3:1 on the road (26") 44: 16 or 18 would be good. You can get cheap sprockets for a couple of quid on ebay if you want to play around a bit.
2:1 would be too spinny for flat and road stuff.
miketually
26"
try 44:19 to start
Hi.
Try 44:19 as it's what you have hanging around. Suck it and see.
Go larger at the front rather than small at the rear. Small rear cogs mean fewer teeth are engaged - less "chain wrap" so more wear and less secure.
42:18 would be good.
And on the link below you will find a gear ratio table so you can compare ratios.
http://www.charliethebikemonger.com/page44.htm
Charlie
that info is excellent, thanks