Advice for track ratio
#1
Advice for track ratio
I'm currently running a flip flop hub with a 16t freewheel on one side and wanted to get some advice about what fixed cog i should run on the other.
Basically i just want something to use at the velodrome so just flip it over to the fixed side once i get there and use something a bit harder for the track.
I am running a 44T on the front currently and i find the 44/16 perfect for street and commuting but just am not sure about how low i should go for the track, would 15 be fine or should I look at going down to 14 maybe? Or even lower?
Sorry if its and stupid question and i know its subjective but just wanted to get some advice as i haven't ever changed ratios before so am a bit in the dark on this
Cheers
Basically i just want something to use at the velodrome so just flip it over to the fixed side once i get there and use something a bit harder for the track.
I am running a 44T on the front currently and i find the 44/16 perfect for street and commuting but just am not sure about how low i should go for the track, would 15 be fine or should I look at going down to 14 maybe? Or even lower?
Sorry if its and stupid question and i know its subjective but just wanted to get some advice as i haven't ever changed ratios before so am a bit in the dark on this
Cheers
#2
Veteran Racer
Join Date: Jul 2009
Location: Ciudad de Vacas, Tejas
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Well, first off, you mean "higher" not "lower." As to gearing for the track, do you mean for just riding or for competition ? If you're just riding, then a 44 x 15 should give you a decent workout, but for racing you'll need at least a 44 x14, and when I was racing it was more like a 47 x 14.
#3
Newbie racer
Here:
https://www.bikecalc.com/speed_at_cadence
Use that and try out a few different cogs for your ring or some rings even. I can't offer anything track wise, but I use that sheet a lot for time trial gearing stuff.
https://www.bikecalc.com/speed_at_cadence
Use that and try out a few different cogs for your ring or some rings even. I can't offer anything track wise, but I use that sheet a lot for time trial gearing stuff.
#4
Well, first off, you mean "higher" not "lower." As to gearing for the track, do you mean for just riding or for competition ? If you're just riding, then a 44 x 15 should give you a decent workout, but for racing you'll need at least a 44 x14, and when I was racing it was more like a 47 x 14.
cheers
#5
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: PHL
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Bikes: Litespeed Catalyst, IRO Rob Roy, All City Big Block
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44x15 is going to be a very small gear for track purposes, so get ready to spin like a MF. I'd say get yourself a 48t ring as well for a good starting gear.
#6
I'd recommend getting a range of track cogs from 13-15 if you're going to maintain the chainring at 44t. Make sure you have a long chain whip/lockring tool, as well. Shimano makes an excellent one but if you're in a tighter budget Lifeline also has one that's very reliable