Originally Posted by
Cycle Tourist
Wow. A 34! That's pretty hard to find outside of a touring bike. I agree a 14 just doesn't do it. A change to a 13 doesn't seem like much but it does make a big difference. I typically run a 23 or 24 up front and get by with a 32 in back on my loaded touring bikes. I'm happy enough with a 48/13 on the high end. With the right tires you should be able to climb telephone poles with a 22/34. People with zip by you when walking though. I hate it when that happens! 🙄
Its classified as a "sport touring" bike... Im quite thankful for the 34 gear.
I dont see anything wrong with the 14 gears. It works when you have this many teeth in the front chainring.. not only is the spacing in the freewheel improved, which helps for a smoother transition between ratios, but 14 is a more useful gear than 11 for the majority of average circumstances.