39 vs 42 chainring

[nate]

I've been cycling for about 15 - 17 years and I have Always used 42/52 chainrings on my road bike. The 42 ring is becoming more difficult to replace because shops just don't stock them any more. I love my 42, I use that ring 95% of the time because I find it comfortable for most terrain I ride.

 

So my question, have any of you gone from 42 to 39 and how did you find the change?

 

I do most of my training on the 42-17 and 42 -19 gearing. The 39 will no doubt make climbing easier but what's it like on the flat routes?

 

Does anyone know the gearing comparison calculation?

 

 

 

[Ox_Wagon]

According to these guys bigger is always better.<?: prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

https://www.bikehub.co.za/forum_posts.asp?TID=31848&PN=1

So rather replace your 42 with 52 and your 52 with a 54. 

PS: There is a link to Sheldown Browns Gear Calculator some where in that link.

 

[Johan Bornman]

I have several of those old cranks lying around - brand new but old. They have 42 chainrings. Contact me if you want one.

[Johan Bornman]

According to these guys bigger is always better.<?: prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" />

https://www.bikehub.co.za/forum_posts.asp?TID=31848&PN=1

So rather replace your 42 with 52 and your 52 with a 54. 

PS: There is a link to Sheldown Browns Gear Calculator some where in that link.

 

 

I agree, bigger is better.

 

[Ox_Wagon]

[JPW#]

Go with 53 / 39 gives you a nice range