Originally Posted by
bonsai171
Hi,
I'm currently running a 53/39t Shimano 105 5700 drivetrain on my road bike, and plan to do some serious climbing this year. I've done 14-15 % climbs with this gearing (mostly shorter climbs), but in this area, you can climb 100 ft for every 10 mi ridden. Would it be beneficial to go with a compact crankset?
Only you can answer that. Do you have the strength to use the current set up? Are you struggling doing the 1,000 ft per every 10 miles? Does your conditioning not allow you to use the current set up? Do you need lower climbing gears.
1,000 ft per 10 miles is not that much. Around here and 8 mile climb gives one 2,300 ft of gain. When I was training for climbing rides, it was no problem on a 53/39- 12/26 cassette.
I also did a ride with 12,000 ft in the first 72 miles.
Not saying anything about your fitness or strength. Only that YOU ask if you should swap to a compact. Only you know the answer.
My opinion, if you are training as you say, you shouldn't have a problem with that type of gain. If you feel you need it, then yes! Nobody can answer that but you.