Singlespeed Setup

[didnothingfatal]

Picked up a single speed alternator plate for my Salsa, currently running 180mm cranks with a 32x16 setup, winter I run 32x18. But was thinking does a 34x17 give the same gearing as 32x16, both are 2:1 but is this where gear inches come into play?

[Bearbonesnorm]

If it's 2:1 then it's 2:1 regardless of the actual ratio you use ... some people do say they can feel a difference between ring/cog sizes for the same ratio though.

[Anthony]

I tend to run 36/18 for 2:1 as I find that 18T cogs last longer than 16T cogs. Heavier though Currently set as 35/22 for bikepacking in proper hills

Gear inches come into play when your comparing gear ratios between different sized wheels. Ie 2:1 on a 26" bike is different to that of a 29er.

[didnothingfatal]

Doesn't a 35/22 setup get a little annoying? What cogs are you using? I've used On One Groove Armada, wear seems ok. For the front I'm using a Middleburn Ceramic hardcoat ring, I have no idea how this will survive.

[Anthony]

Not at all, I find it perfect for big hilly rides when loaded up. SS is never going to be perfect for all conditions, if I know I need to make fast progress I'll put the 1x7 on.

Surly Stainless ring, Surly cog, KMC 610HX chain. The Surly stainless chainrings are brilliant, have used them for years. Super strong, durable and really not that heavy at all.

King kogs are really nice too but pricey.