New cyclocross: Should I swap chain ring from 46 to 50?

DustyC
DustyC Posts: 2
edited August 2011 in Road buying advice
I am an MTBer. Have been gradually changing my 19 year old non suspension bike to a
commuting/touring bike and now the only way to take it further is to
get a new bike. I still have a full suspension bike to keep me hippo like.

I have decided I'd like a Cyclocross as it would suit me for touring/commuting which i do on my 19 year old MTB and the Cannodale CAADX Tiagra currently appeals
BUT...
It comes with 36/46 chain rings.
I want this bike to be a fast commute/tourer.
Could/should I change the big ring to a 50? or maybe even bigger?

I'll be changing the tyres for semi slicks for road and hardpack towpaths anyway
(something similar to my MTB Maxxis wormdrives but less nobbly)

Disclaimer!
I'm new here and new to road bikes so please excuse innocent mistakes!

Comments

  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    Depends on how fast you're planning to ride - FWIW a 46 chainring with an 11 or 12 sprocket is still good for 40kph - it's only on long, fast downhills over 60kph where you run out of gears IME.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • PeterBL
    PeterBL Posts: 209
    Agree with monty dog. Get it, and see how you get along. It is easy to change for a 50t, if you feel the need.
  • petemadoc
    petemadoc Posts: 2,331
    Yup, leave the 46 on and only change if you want to later. I run a cross bike with a 50 and I'm planning on changing it to a 46.
  • greasedscotsman
    greasedscotsman Posts: 6,962
    Not sure if it's any help, but Evans currently have the Cannondale your after at a reduced price...

    http://www.evanscycles.com/products/can ... e-ec025339

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