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.
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  • 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: 1,168
    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.

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