I’m currently using a 48/17 gear ratio for my fixie, it’s not that hard, but when the hill is super steep its kinda hard…i have a 46 teeth chainring that my friend gave me and im thinking of using that but would changing it to a 46/15 or 16 a better gear ratio for easy skidding or is 46/17 fine ?
8 Answers
46 16 Gear Ratio
There never is a good ratio for a fixed gear bicycle. Facing headwinds, ratio will be too high. Riding with a tailwind, ratio will be too low.
That’s why multiple gear bicycles were invented in the mid 1930’s.
To answer your question, you bike is equipped with a 48/17 (2.83 ratio) or 76 gear inches. You are looking 46/17 (2.70 ratio) or 72 gear inches or 46/16 (2.875 ratio) or 77 gear inches.
Go with the 46/17 setup.
You sound pretty experienced so you need to make your own call. 48/17 to 46/16 is a minor pick up in gearing so I doubt you’ll feel much difference except on the big hill, while the 46/15 will definitely be felt. As for skidding, I feel it kind of goes with the hill thing — if you are strong enough for the hill, you’ll handle the skid. Sticking with the rear 17 will feel too easy.
46/17
The 17 will be slower but you can climb hills better the 15 will be faster but harder to climb.
15=faster top speed, slower take off 16=lower top speed, faster take off
you’re a pussy if you ride anything other than 53×11