To be honest, I have a lot of time for front derailleurs even though they’re unfashionable, especially for those of us who already understand how to use them them. What’s not to like about having 2 or 3 ranges? Reach the a rise or hollow and just flip into a another range for the other side… Close ratios and range… and straight chainlines.
Either way is fine with me. I built up a 1x10 because I wanted to try it, and all I was working with was a frame. It’s awesome for gravel and some light trails. The only time I miss having more range is between my home, and the trails. My highest gear 38x11 feels too slow for me on the road. I might swap in a larger chain ring, but for now I just keep it where it works best for me, off road. The current bike I’m working on is another old Rockhopper. Going to clean it up and keep it stock 3x7. For a more all rounder.
Speaking of understanding how to use them. A coworker of mine leaves her 8spd rear derailleur in like 5th gear and only uses her 3x front derailleur to shift.
I was quite baffled when she told me this but hey, it gets her to work and home.
To be honest, I have a lot of time for front derailleurs even though they’re unfashionable, especially for those of us who already understand how to use them them. What’s not to like about having 2 or 3 ranges? Reach the a rise or hollow and just flip into a another range for the other side… Close ratios and range… and straight chainlines.
Either way is fine with me. I built up a 1x10 because I wanted to try it, and all I was working with was a frame. It’s awesome for gravel and some light trails. The only time I miss having more range is between my home, and the trails. My highest gear 38x11 feels too slow for me on the road. I might swap in a larger chain ring, but for now I just keep it where it works best for me, off road. The current bike I’m working on is another old Rockhopper. Going to clean it up and keep it stock 3x7. For a more all rounder.
Speaking of understanding how to use them. A coworker of mine leaves her 8spd rear derailleur in like 5th gear and only uses her 3x front derailleur to shift.
I was quite baffled when she told me this but hey, it gets her to work and home.
That’s almost exactly what it’s like riding a 3-speed. The ratio jumps are usually pretty similar.