The Benefits and Drawbacks of Compact Drivetrains on a Road Bike
The choice between a standard drivetrain and a compact drivetrain is a common concern for many recreational and experienced cyclists. Compact drivetrains offer several advantages, particularly for riders who struggle to maintain high power outputs during climbs. However, they also come with some drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of compact drivetrains and discuss some practical considerations for cyclists.
The Pros of Compact Drivetrains
Compact drivetrains, with their smaller chainring sizes, offer several advantages. One of the key benefits is the ability to stay on the saddle during climbs, providing a more comfortable and efficient ride. With a smaller chainring, cyclists can maintain a higher cadence, which reduces the risk of exposure to high winds and limits the need to frequently dismount and walk the bike.
Lighter Weight and Higher Ground Clearance
Compact drivetrains can be lighter and offer higher ground clearance, which is particularly beneficial for mountainous terrain. This reduces the risk of chains coming off the chainrings or hitting obstacles. Additionally, compact drivetrains are easier to fit with climbing gears, making them a popular choice for those who frequently tackle steep ascents.
The Cons of Compact Drivetrains
While compact drivetrains offer several advantages, they also come with some drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is the increased friction and wear, as the smaller chainrings and chain put more pressure on the drivetrain components. This can lead to quicker wear and increased maintenance requirements.
Shift Jarring and Wear
Another drawback of compact drivetrains is the shift between the largest and smallest chainrings on the front. This can be jarring and require adjustments on the rear cassette to compensate. For example, a typical setup might involve a 534 chainring combination, which can be challenging to shift and requires a wide-range cassette to maintain proper gear ratios.
Practical Considerations for Cyclists
When choosing a drivetrain that suits your riding style, it's important to consider the specific needs of your ride. Here are a few tips:
Optimal Gear Ratios for Touring
For touring bikes, the smallest chainring you can fit is typically 34 teeth when paired with a 30 or 32 tooth rear cog. While this is a reasonable setup, it may not be the most ideal. Consider swapping from a 11-32T cassette to an 11-28T or 12-32T to include a 16T cog, which can provide a better range of gears.
Mid-Compact Gearing for Those Who Can Produce Power
If you are reasonably fit and have trained to occasionally pedal in higher gears, you might consider a mid-compact drivetrain with 52T-36T on the front chainrings. This setup offers a balance between the high-end gear ratios of a standard drivetrain and the low-end gear ratios of a compact drivetrain.
Training for Optimal Climbing Performance
Effective climbing performance also depends on your training. Unlike what many cyclists believe, pushing higher gears at lower cadences can actually improve your climbing performance. Using a power meter, heart rate monitor, and cadence sensor can help you understand the optimal gear and cadence for your climbs. Training your anaerobic system to work alongside your aerobic system can lead to better overall performance during climbs.
Ultimately, the choice between a standard drivetrain and a compact drivetrain depends on your individual needs and ride conditions. Regularly assessing your performance and adjusting your drivetrain setup can help you achieve the best possible results.