I have read quite a few posts and mags where people have ditched 2 front rings and gone single on the front to shift weight and ditch bar clutter. Any views on effect on performance and would you need a chain guide? If it is a good idea what are the ideal cranks for the job and what size chainring? I am thinking about this for a trail bike…..
cheers
I do about 90% of my riding in the middle ring (I am a spinner) so I reckon it's very possible to get a workeable set-up. You can probably use any cranks, but you will need shorter chainring bolts I believe(?) if you don't use a bash guard.
To get an idea of what size front ring to use you should think about your existing set-up and where you spend most of your riding time. I reckon 32 front and a standard rear cassette (I use 11/32) would get you over 90% of terrain.
You will need a front chainring which does not have ramps and pins to aid shifting - these will make the chain more likely to fall off. You can buy these easily enough online. As for chain guide devices, I dunno!
I've got my Inbred on a single ring setup at the moment. I have a Middleburn unramped 34t ring in the middle position, 11-32 XT cassette, 9 speed HG53 chain, XTR derailier. All works beautifully, but the chain does come off sometimes - especially bouncing down stairs and things like that. Gearing wise, it's perfect for Cambridgeshire (although, so is a single speed). I think I'd struggle in something like the peak district with just one chainring.
Crankwise, I've had FSA carbon K-force cranks and truvativ firex cranks, both were fine. The carbon ones are on at the moment and are nicer to ride and lighter. TBH, any crankset should be fine.
I'm considering a DMR chain guide to keep the chain on a bit more. I did a 6 hour race in Thetford and the chain came off twice, but I never used 1st or 9th.
Cheers.
well tbh it would be for a Ransom riding the likes of wales, quantocks, and possible some uplifts at cwm carn so every type of riding...