what gears do I use

[cal bean]

I just bought a salsa single speed for the winter races. does any one no what gears work best.& also do egg beaters or platform work best in the snow.

[RiverRat]

Gears are going to depend on the course, wheels size, and your personal riding style. Some other more single speed savvy folks will point you in about the right direction though.

Pedals are going to depend on temp, the footwear you own, and how tolerant your feet are to cold. I run clipless until my shoes no longer keep my feet warm, then switch to flats and boots. Others have better winter cycling boots that keep feet warm and still clip in. And some others just use a heat pack in their shoes to help keep warm. I would also recomend being very comfortable clipping out to put a foot down if you are running clipless on snow/ice, as you can slip out in a quick hurry.

[RichZilla]

Many people run clipless all winter, and just get the proper gear for it. That can be pretty spendy though. I throw on flats for the winter, then there's no chance of going down clipped in. It also gives the total workout to the "pushing" muscles.

[cal bean]

I am going to try both pedals out thanks for the advise. but the bike has 26" wheels the gearing is 34-17 & the races I will be going to will be & elk river. so does it have the right gearing or should i up grade for elk river.thanks cal

[MC13]

Cal
If you are looking for a gear for the snow I would try a 34x20 or more. remember you need to spin a high cadance in the snow, it is very difficult to get out of the saddle and pedal in the snow (no traction). knowing your riding style (high cadance) i would maybe lean twards a 22 in the rear. Pick them both up and give them a try. as for the pedals, I use time atac pedals year round with great luck. to Rich's point platforms are nice when you need to get out in a hurry, however i have not had any problems with times.

Later

[Danimal]

Use all of them.

Single speeders, what are ya gonna do with them.:)

Us geared people don't have these problems.

[transplant]

Use all of them.

Single speeders, what are ya gonna do with them.:)

Us geared people don't have these problems.


Sheesh. Those Lefty folks. Only one leg on their fork. Whattaya gonna do wit em? Let's see, what makes more sense? A bike with one gear or a bike with one leg for the fork? :crazy: Other than than minor flaw, Dan's an alright guy.

I'm partial to the Eggbeaters during the warmer months and platforms when it's cold. My SS is geared at 39x22. Seems to work (so far) for all but Afton. As far as snow goes, it seems OK because it's not too tall to climb but it doesn't spin out either. A 24 rear might be better though.

[cal bean]

Use all of them.

Single speeders, what are ya gonna do with them.:)

Us geared people don't have these problems.
some people get so involved in what gear the should be in when they are @ a race they start to loose all there stuff .hey dan ill let you use mine & take the load off your mind. just kiding have a good day.:)