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Because I don’t particularly enjoy the gear ratio websites out there my dumb question is this: On a Shimano XT 1×11 drivetrain which is an easier granny gear combination to spin – 1) A 30 tooth chainring in the front on the largest cog on a 11-42 cassette in the rear OR 2) A 32 tooth chainring in the front on the largest cog on a 11-46 cassette in the rear?
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They are almost identical. You probably wouldn’t even notice a different. Mathematically 32×46 is slightly easier than 30×42, but the ratios are 0.70 vs 0.71 which is almost inconsequential.
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Thanks ssphillips for the informative and simple answer to my question – I appreciate it.
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Since ssphillips already answered your question… I would go with the 32T ring and 46T cassette, that way you have more top end for flatter/faster terrain, without sacrificing your climbing gear.
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Very good point Aaron. I currently have a 30-tooth chainring with a 11-42 cassette and it is good for riding relatively steep Montana terrain most of the time. I occasionally don’t have as easy of granny gear as I’d like when climbing and on the other hand I also occasionally top out on speed on flatter terrain. For me personally I like to be able to climb steep sections of trail if at all possible so I am leaning towards keeping my 30 tooth chainring and getting an 11-46 cassette. Obviously I will sacrifice on the top end but I don’t really care about maximum speed on flat trail anyway. I’m considering the 11-46 cassette from Box components or possibly even Sunrace. I think I will avoid the Shimano 11-46 cassette because the final gear jump to granny is not supposed to be good.
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I agree with Aaron. I own both drivetrains…the 32-11 is important!
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Yeah, I can confirm that the jump on that Shimano cassette is awkward. It’s a whopping 9 teeth!
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