Quote Originally Posted by Bluetree View Post
Thanks Gals

I think I am going to go with a Dura-Ace triple. I was thinking a lot about a compact double but on the hills around here I use every one of my gears... big and small. Esp. on descents I like the option of getting into the biggest gear possible, because my weight puts me at such a disadvantage.

Case in point: last week my buddy (170 lbs) and I (110 lbs) crested a moderate hill with a straight descent. We started freewheeling down and he kept pulling farther and farther away. I was maxed out on my big ring just trying to keep from falling too far back. The idea of running out of big gears sooner with a compact double would probably irk me at some point.

So I took Sadie Kate's advice and checked out a bike with the 07 DA. Very nice, I think with shims it may work with my hands. I'll keep ya posted.

Thanks for the wealth of good advice. It's much appreciated!
Remember Bluetree - you are even lighter than I am so downhilling and staying with people that are heavier than you will always be a problem. The triple over a compact will help you, but won't solve your problem. The best tip I can give you is when you hit the top of the hill make sure you are right on the wheel of the heavier person and follow them down; the draft will make up for the lack of weight. I have to do this all the time or I will get dropped going downhill. And, it has nothing to do with wanting to go fast - I love to go fast downhill!