Topics

1

Gear Talk / 11-32 vs 11-34

« on: April 16, 2014, 11:38:44 pm »

11-32 vs. 11-34
I'm hoping that some of the frequent and knowledgeable contributors will weigh in on their opinion. I'm 69 years old. At 65 I rode self-contained from Chicago to Boulder (1,250 miles) without too much trouble. I have stamina but lack power. In May 2014 I plan to attempt the TransAm east to west self-contained. My bike is a Trek 520. The current configuration which has served me well is:
   Years ago I swapped out the crankset for a 22/32/44.
   The cassette is the original 11-32
   Tires are 700 x 32c
Do I have much to gain by replacing the 11-32 with an 11-34 or will the benefit of a slightly lower gear be negligible. I'm thinking that with the low 22 granny chainring the benefit will be slight. Shifting has been smooth and I've had no problems. What do you think? Do I have much, if anything, to gain by going to an 11-34?
Thanks in advance.
George

2

Routes / Missoula going west - TransAm or Lewis & Clark?

« on: February 16, 2011, 05:16:43 pm »

Hi all,
I am planning a self-contained solo ride beginning in May 2011 from Silverthorne CO along the TransAm heading north to Missoula MT. Once in Missoula I'm trying to decide between the TranAm to Florence OR or the L&C to Seaside OR. The L&C to Seaside would be about 128 miles shorter. Would prefer the L&C to Seaside over the TranAm but am concerned about ruggedness of terrain. Does anyone have experience on these two routes who can give me some insights as to how the terrains compare with each other. Ideally I would like to keep my mileage around 50 a day. I like staying at motels but camp when there is no motel option. Also would welcome company.
[email]salabes@hotmail.com