gear ratio vs tire thickness thoughts. . .

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Darkness Merkin on November 26, 2008 at 4:07pm

Here are my thoughts on your concerns:
- You won't be able to tell any difference in gearing between sizes of cross tires that are suitable for racing (30-34mm)
- You just can't think about it and determine what gear you need, so stop trying. Use what you have for a couple of races and see how it goes. 40X18T is a pretty common gear. Most people here in the NW don't deviate from this ratio by much if at all. That includes the guys that win.
- If you want to be the least bit competitive (I am assuming that you do or else you wouldn't be so worried about gearing), get some good tires. For clinchers, Mud2's do it for me. Just air up if it's dry and fast, you don't have to change your tires (unless you are paid to ride your bike).

Permalink Reply by chrisbloome on November 26, 2008 at 4:30pm

thanks for the help, and good call.

Permalink Reply by Lillypad on November 26, 2008 at 5:06pm

to shed mud, I use tires made for mud....it is the difference from having clogged wheels & watching others pass me by. Last weekend...i won my first race & having the mud tires is what made it happen as I normally don't lap my competition! if you have a flipflop put two freewheels on & decide what you want after the pre-ride. if there a lot of sustain climbs with little flats go w/ the ez gearing....otherwise hammer up the short climbs recover on the downhills & power down on the flats. you'll figure out what works for you. if beer is your prerace fuel then your efforts can't be too serious & you're not too concerned w/ winning or doing your best....have fun with it ....over time you'll dial in the technique , equip, training, etc. have fun!