What gear ratios do you run on the track?

[reezy_2.0]

@dayne

Don’t think A grade is that weak in Brisbane

For sure. It’s far from easy pickings and there are some crafty, crafty people who race there too.

[reezy_2.0]

@rhys

I guess gear choices are like baked beans and spaghetti - mankind will forever be divided over which is the best choice.

When I first started riding track I was late 20s and nature had long ago decided which path I would take if I were to ever become a competitive cyclist. Somebody built like me is never going to climb a mountain in the company of the bunch or spin an 88gi bike to victory.

Maybe two years ago I used my speed/cadence sensor to do some analysis (!), and I discovered that using a 47, 48, 49, and 50t front with a 14t on the rear I maxed out at 150rpm. With every gear in my bag I maxed out at 150rpm. It makes no sense for me to max out at 150rpm on a 47-14 when I can max out at 150rpm on a 50-14. That is 4km/h top end speed difference and good for almost .5 over a flying 200m.

I guess part of the fun (for me) of racing is figuring out who is what kind of rider and the gearing they’re using and adjusting accordingly depending on the goal.

Edited this so it actually makes sense.