17 or 18 t on the back

[jayonabike]

I currently run 42 x 16, I also suffer from Arthritis. I've noticed some of the hills around here I used to fly up I'm having a bit of trouble getting up these days and with the damp winter & stronger winds on their way I was thinking of changing the rear cog to save my knees. According to Sheldon 42 x 16 is 69''
If I changed to a 17 t it would be 64.9'' & 18t 61.3''
Would the 17 be noticeable difference or should I go for the 18t or would that be too much of a leap and I would be spinning on the flats?

Jay

 

[Pottsy]

My advice is go for the 17t. A drop of 4-5" will definitely be noticeable and probably sufficient if you're used to around 69".

Also don't forget that you'll be making steeper descents a bit tougher with that lower gear.

 

[JohnTCC]

hi,

Why not try each for a week and see how you go. it isnt a big job to change them.



Good luck



JohnTCC

 

[Ibbots]

worth considering your average and specific speeds and working from there. Have a mess about with this and you will get an idea of your cadence using different gears.

http://www.bikecalc.com/fixed