Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Who Rides Compact Crank Here ?

And what cassette do you have?

I currently have a 9-speed 52/39 crank and I run a 12-25 cassette. I usually never use the 12-teeth though, as I don't have the muscle to push this gear when on my 52 front, and also using the 39 with the 12 is hard on the chain.

My next component will be 10-speed or 11-speed, and I think I should have similar gear ratios, but wanted to see what you guys run as all of you have at least 10-speed.

You all have seen me ride. Should I get 53/39 standard or 50/34 compact? And what cassette should I have if I only have one set of wheels to use on say Mt Baldy and on a flat like PCH?

In the future if I have a set of climbing wheels and flat-course wheel, what should I get?

Thanks!
Phong

8 comments:

  1. Get the standard 53/39 crank. Your climbing leg demonstrate enough that you do not need a compact.

    Compacts are great if you climb alot and weak in the climbing dept like myself. However, on the flat you will have to work very work to keep the fast speed. Of course, you have both of the Scotts' that defies that logic with compacts.
    So go figure.

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  2. I will scan you an interview with Levi during his early training this year. I recall he uses a compact with 28 and Contador had a compact on a 30. He mentioned even using a triple crank set for training.

    I have a compact on 11/26 but I blow.

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  3. I agree with Billy, all depends on how much you want to climb. If you're going to climb 100k+ feet a year I think it warrants it, but if its only the occasional climb you'll be fine with just putting a 25 or maybe 27 in the back.

    Like the saying goes, if you don't have it you won't miss it.

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  5. Levi on a 28 rear. picture by Lance.

    http://twitpic.com/qaus

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  6. Thanks Guys!!!

    I am planning 53/39 front and 12-25 (or 12-26 if they have) rear.

    Vinh, I don't think I can spin fast enough for a 28 teeth cassette.

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  7. I am using compact with 11/26 Sram for the BIG LONG HILLY RIDE. It really help when your legs are sreaming for help after long ride and you still have to climb the 18% hill that is 3/4 miles long, OR long 6-8% hill on the saddle... and spining!
    I also using it to stay in the 30+ mpph paceline... and still OK!
    Compare to Standard crank/12-27 DA... gear ratio of 34/26 is lower then 39/27... better for climbing.
    50/11 is higher than 53/12... so it is better in sprinting also...
    Off course it can not match the 53/11... but you must sprint over 38mph to worry about! hehehe!
    I will get the 11/21 for flatter route! shifting will be very smooth.
    Hope this help!
    Quang
    ps! all my bikes are Standard except for my new Pinarello bike!

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  8. Thanks Quang! I wish I have a climbing bike and a flat-road bike, but I plan on having just one so will stick with standard front. Should be okay with our routes here until we do Mount Baldy in the Fall.

    What Pinarello are you getting? How many bikes are in your arsenal?

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