I've gone for a 13/29

[MallyG]

Well, I figured that the hills on l'etape would take some beating, so I've swapped over my 11/23 for a gigantic 13/29. Also had to change over my short Record derailleur for a medium one (more money!!!) Looks slightly uglier but seems to shift ok (I guess I've added a few grammes in the process too). I'm keeping my original parts to swap back after the ride (though the rear derailleur is the 2004 Record as opposed to the 2003). :bike:

[Serotta PETE]

Mally, I also know folks around here who just have the "normal" cage one and keep it out of te top 2 cogs when they are on large chainring. I have the med and 13/29 will be using it in Maryland (USA) this weekend to try and keep Smiley and Flydhest is sight. Gears shift ok (still I thing that 12/23 shifts quicker). Unfortunatel, I am not quick enough to support the gears...

Hope the weather is better there than here.....50F and drizzel)

PETE

[Climb01742]

mally, with a 13/29 on the back, what's up front?

[MallyG]

mally, with a 13/29 on the back, what's up front?

I'm sticking with the 52/39 for the moment. I'm going out to France in a couple of weeks for a four-day recce (including the hardest col). If I still find it a struggle then I'll either swap to a FSA compact up front, or bite the bullet and go triple. The money I'm spending for a one-day ride is insane!

Weather is great here right now, will cycle to work tomorrow (on my hybrid though - West End roads and traffic and Serottas do not mix).

[Ahneida Ride]

MallyG.

I'm running a 13-29 also. 48/36/22 Ta Zephyr crank.
Long Cage Record RD

The bottom line is that I can manage the worst Vermont has to
offer. Why mash ? I'll do squats instead. Personally I find it much easier to
sit and spin. My knees do not like mashing.

I find this setup to shift well indeed. Just as crisp as the Campy
53/42/30 Triple. Honest.

48/13 tops out at 25 MPH on a straight which is fast enough for me.

Enjoy !

[MGS9500]

I've been using a 13-29 with the Compact FSA 52/36.

It allows for a great low gear and only a slight compromise high gear. I can get up to 42MPH without over spinning.

Beats a triple and a huge range for touring.

[gasman]

I also went for a FSA compact crank. It comes with a 50/34 and I use it with with a 12-27 on DA 10 speed. I have plenty of low range and enough high end for me. I like the set up better than my Ultegra triple it is cleaner, neater and works better.Of course, it is comparing DA to Ultegra but the comparison of the two cranks holds well for me. :banana: