Originally Posted by
70sSanO
Is there an issue fitting a chain guide with a 42t? Or, have you made up your mind you don’t want to use one?
John
I currently have a 40t NW on the bike. It's pretty good and was like $27 on the eBay.
I'm just daydreaming here. The max speed before I have to tuck and coast on this bike is a little less than I'd like on those occasions that I cross a steep paved road when connecting trails and dirt roads.
On the other end, 40x42 will literally get an unloaded bike up anything but there are occasions when I can't quite keep my cadence where I'd like.
Switching from 11-42 over to 10-42 and also dropping to a 38 would give you those precious few gear inches at either end.
I don't think it will work without major compromise or wallet biopsy.
As for 1x vs 2x. Weight and simplicity. If I were racing though, I think 46/34 x 11-36 would probably be best for me.