gearing and climbing-help

[Batbike]

here's my 2 cents worth ... based on my experience: I started with a 52/42/30 triple up front, 12-25 back, and got to the point of not using the small chainring much, so changed to a double and a 12-27. I eventually changed bikes and because I could not get a 12-27 with my new set-up, I changed to a 13-26 (still standard 53/39 on front). YES, I struggle on really steep grades ... and if the grade is too steep, I simply don't ride it. However, there are certain rides I would like to go on, but if I did them, I know I would have to change my front to a compact -- 50/34 and maybe change my back to a 13-39.

So, if your hills are rideable with your triple and you just want to ride them faster, I say keep riding them ... you will only get stronger. If you feel a slightly easier gear will help you get up the hills, not necessarily faster, but with less overall body strain, than I say change your rear cassette to a 12-27 -- an inexpensive alternative to a knee saving, heart saving, body saving problem. If you struggle to get up the hills altogether or would like to ride steeper grades and need lower gearing, than consider a compact 50/34, keeping your 12-25 in the back. ...just my 2 cents

[Batbike]

(reference above message) meant a 13-29 in back with compact -- sorry.

[lacyliz]

Thanks, BatBike- makes a lot of sense. I think what I'm going to do after hearing from you-all is to ride a bunch more on the new set-up and see how it goes. I'll then know better (trying some new sets of hills/roads that I want to be able to do) if I should keep what I have and practice more or swap the cassette for either a 12-27 or 13-29, like you say. I'm compelled to improve at the hills or at least learn to like the challenge of a steeper hill. I just LOVE to be out on the road. Mornings, especially - Feels like flying...