Vicki C.
T50 Trailblazer and Silvio newbie
I knew I might end up wanting a few more gears than the one 40T ring on front. Now that I feel I can actually ride this bike and am certainly enjoying it, I need to make sure I can negotiate climbs, especially with curves, consistently. On a few local bits, I am finding that a challenge. I suspect I could overcome some of that challenge as my T50 muscles become stronger, but I do want to continue to ride the rides I am used to.
So, I did check in with the LBS for a quote for swapping the 40T front ring for a compact double, mountain bike style, or for keeping the 40T and changing the rear cassette. I just thought I would seek suggestions from all of you power users out there before I go forward.
Option 1: I was told I could go to an 8-speed 11-36 cassette as one option and keep the 40T ring.
Option 2: A 48 or 50/34 crankset (and I was quoted for an Origin8), with the SRAM 3 twist 3 speed (for a double? or maybe that is the only option), and, of course, the clamps and whatnot.
I am used to a 46/36/24 with an 11-34 cassette on my Tour Easy. With that I can climb most of what I want as long as I can keep the bike upright. The T50, like other Cruzbikes, climbs more efficiently, and I probably don't need the very smallest gear.
Any ideas of a better setup or comments on whether this is a decent setup (remembering that I am not seeking top-end components but something in line with what is already on the bike).
So, I did check in with the LBS for a quote for swapping the 40T front ring for a compact double, mountain bike style, or for keeping the 40T and changing the rear cassette. I just thought I would seek suggestions from all of you power users out there before I go forward.
Option 1: I was told I could go to an 8-speed 11-36 cassette as one option and keep the 40T ring.
Option 2: A 48 or 50/34 crankset (and I was quoted for an Origin8), with the SRAM 3 twist 3 speed (for a double? or maybe that is the only option), and, of course, the clamps and whatnot.
I am used to a 46/36/24 with an 11-34 cassette on my Tour Easy. With that I can climb most of what I want as long as I can keep the bike upright. The T50, like other Cruzbikes, climbs more efficiently, and I probably don't need the very smallest gear.
Any ideas of a better setup or comments on whether this is a decent setup (remembering that I am not seeking top-end components but something in line with what is already on the bike).