Cross Gearing: Just curious

[Lifesgreat]

Andrea: Thank you for your explanation, it was helpful for me.

Sorta OT, now the gearing part that confuses me is when riders start talking about the different combinations within the gears they have. For example, on a triple, they talk about how much they may like the largest front and the 3rd smallest rear gear as opposed to the medium front and smallest rear gear. Hope that makes sense. I just find the combo that feels good.

[Andrea]

Andrea: Thank you for your explanation, it was helpful for me.

Sorta OT, now the gearing part that confuses me is when riders start talking about the different combinations within the gears they have. For example, on a triple, they talk about how much they may like the largest front and the 3rd smallest rear gear as opposed to the medium front and smallest rear gear. Hope that makes sense. I just find the combo that feels good.

Thanks! Glad I could help.

Don't sweat the in-between gears thing. A lot of people make a big deal about certain combos, but I think along the same lines as you... just ride what feels right... who cares what the number is!
I ride an 11/26 set of rear gears (on my road bike), which doesn't include a 16t cog. I've never felt at a disadvantage without it, but some people won't buy the 11/26 cassette because they want the 16t!!! Madness!

[SpeedyChix]

34*46 up front, most often a 12-27 cassette. I like to be able to spin so opted for the 'easy' gear.