Gearing Suggestions for My First Cross Bike

[rhiannon008]

Hey all!

I just recently purchased my first cross frameset, and would like some suggestions for all round race gearing. I will be using a 12-27 9speed cassette swapped out from my Bianchi road bike. However, I need your opinions on useful gearing in the front that will provide a good ratio for most courses and conditions. I am on a budget for this project, so I am limited to purchasing 2 (three max) chainrings.

Thanks,

Rhiannon

[cwodiva]

I've got 39/48 and it seems to work well for most courses around the Southeast. (Georgia, NC and Florida)

[mtnmama]

I've got an 11-32 9-speed in the rear and 50-34 up front. The bike is for both racing and occasional all-purpose riding. The 34 is for the bulk of the cross racing and both chainrings give me a wide range for all-purpose riding. For you, with a 12-27, You might want to consider a 48 and either a 36 or 34. I live in the mountains and both the riding and cross racing are hilly. Good luck and have fun!