Out and backed CT segment 1 and half of 2 this weekend as an overnighter. Was surprised by how gnarly segment 1 is! Got new wheels on the shredpacking steed, possibly went overboard with i9 enduro wheels and 2.6″ tires with rear cushcore, but they were stellar on all the descents.
For those that have thru-biked the CT or other big mountain routes, what size chainring do/did you run?
(Sorry for the non-drive side bike photo)
by uphillarch
3 Comments
Drive side photo, noob
30 tooth is my mountain cog and 32 for the down below.
In August I finished the CTR. I’m working on a full gear write-up of equipment. In short, I rode a hardtail with 28T and 11 – 48 cassette. 27.5×2.8. I also prefer to have a beefier wheel setup than have to deal with issues. I don’t regret running the 28T at all. A 30 would have been fine too. At many points through, it doesn’t matter how good of a rider you are, you’re gonna be pushing. If you think Section 1 is gnarly, the San Juans are an almost religious experience.
Poke at the [Rigs of the CTR](https://bikepacking.com/bikes/2023-colorado-trail-race-rigs/) to get some other ideas for bike setups.