30T or 32T

ed1973
ed1973 Posts: 284
edited April 2018 in MTB workshop & tech
So I have a 1x10 set up with a 32T chainring so looking at a ratio of 0.83 in my 42 cog (according to an online calculator). I’m semi struggling up some steep terrain so would a drop down to 30T help much the ratio is 0.78.
So the question is, is 0.05 going to make a big difference, or do I just need to get stronger legs?

Comments

  • JBA
    JBA Posts: 2,852
    Yes, it will make a difference. You'll be lowering the gear by about 7% so should be able to spin easier up the inclines.
    The downside is that you will lose top end speed as you will spin out sooner.
    “Life has been unfaithful
    And it all promised so so much”

    Giant Trance 2 27.5 2016 ¦ Sonder Broken Road 2021¦ Giant Revolt Advanced 2 2019 ¦ Giant Toughtroad SLR 1 2019 ¦ Giant Anthem 3 2015 ¦ Specialized Myka Comp FSR 2009
  • ed1973
    ed1973 Posts: 284
    JBA wrote:
    Yes, it will make a difference. You'll be lowering the gear by about 7% so should be able to spin easier up the inclines.
    The downside is that you will lose top end speed as you will spin out
    Thanks for the reply.
  • 02gf74
    02gf74 Posts: 1,171
    Are you struggling getting up hills that you have ridden before, say with 22/32 with a 3 speed chainset?

    Depending on how much you struggle, loosing weight both from you and your bike will pay dividends as well as more riding.
    An alternative to 30T is 11-46 10 speed cassette.
  • The Rookie
    The Rookie Posts: 27,812
    That 7% is approximately half the difference between each gear on the cassette.
    Currently riding a Whyte T130C, X0 drivetrain, Magura Trail brakes converted to mixed wheel size (homebuilt wheels) with 140mm Fox 34 Rhythm and RP23 suspension. 12.2Kg.
  • bobbydigital
    bobbydigital Posts: 254
    I run 30t with 40t sprocket and find it's too low geared, you would need some real steep hills to actually need it.
    I wish I had gone for 32t as I ride on the road and higher speed would be useful but I'll be going for the developing my quads option first.

Categories