Compact chain ring size, lower than 34t?

[oldgreyandslow]

I discovered I am not as fit climbing wise as I thought I was whilst out yesterday and this got me thinking about my options for lower ratios.

My bike is a Boardman team carbon with 105, the rear block is 12-25 and the chainset is a compact 50/34

I am looking at fitting a 12-27 cassette in the hope it will give me a little more range but was wondering if its possible to fit a slightly smaller front chain ring than the 34 or indeed if there's anything available?

I know the solution is to get fitter, I'm trying but yesterday really caused me to worry a bit.

Cheers

 

[Lien Sdrawde]

I have the 12-27 fitted but still felt the same as you. After a few weeks going out most days I could climb up any hill that i came accross within my range of 35m from my house except one. Hth.

 

[Rob3rt]

Don't bother getting a smaller chainring, you will compromise front shifting. A 12-27t cassette is a better option. IMO, buy the new cassette and use only up to the 25t (or the nearest) except when in absolute desperation (and I don't mean in pain, suffering is essential, I mean when you are about to fall off), i.e. don't use the 27t except when absolutely necessary

 

[jifdave]

i just put an 11-28 on my bike, i find riding up hill even in the granny-est gear is better than walking.....

 

[Lee_M]

seconded on the 11-28

 

[ianrauk]

seconded on the 11-28

3rd'ed...
You don't want anything smaller on the front as the jump be far too much.

 

[jifdave]

assuming its a 10 speed.......

my mate has a trek 1.5, it has a 12-30 rear and same front.

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/shimano-105-5700-10-speed-cassette/ similar price everywhere.......

 

[lejogger]

Check out the SRAM Rival climbers kit. Less than £130 on wiggle you get an 11-32 cassette a mid range compatible mech and a new chain.

Seems a good deal to me. You'll get up virtually anything on that set up with a light carbon frame

 

[lejogger]

Ps I know how you feel. I was out with the club yesterday and admittedly cycling with a virus and on a heavy winter bike with full rack bag, but we climbed an average 10% gradient for over 20 minutes and I desperately needed that 32.