Originally Posted by
motopokep
Hello, I'm looking for my first road bike. For same model bike with 14, 16 and 18 speed options, what would be the difference? Would the smallest back gear be the same on all 3, resulting in same top speed? Would the difference be that with less options at middle gears, I would have to work harder uphill?
Most likely 2x7, 2x8, 2x9
It's possible one might have better climbing gear than others. Assuming they all have a 34T small chainring, one might have a 30t big cog, while the others might have 26t. The one with the 11-30t cassette in back will have an easier climbing gear.
If all three are 50/34 x 11-28 then the only difference will be how many gear options between top and bottom.