Is it time to rethink the conventional wisdom on gearing for Zone 2 rides, or are the traditionalists right in saying that a compact or semi-compact crankset paired with an 11-25 or 11-28 cassette is the only way to go for optimal endurance training? Some argue that the latest crop of wide-range cassettes and 1x drivetrains offer a more efficient and effective way to tackle long, steady-state efforts, while others claim that the added complexity and weight of these systems outweigh any potential benefits. But what if were approaching this from the wrong angle altogether - what if the key to optimal Zone 2 gearing isnt about the gear ratios themselves, but rather about the overall system stiffness and the ability to maintain a consistent cadence and power output over varying terrain? Should we be prioritizing gear combinations that allow for seamless shifting and minimal disruption to our pedaling rhythm, even if it means sacrificing some of the traditional notions of optimal gearing?
Cycling Training · Public discussion
What’s the best gearing for Zone 2 rides?
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- Cycling Training
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- 4 March 2025
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- 24 March 2025
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- regicide3342
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While maintaining a consistent cadence and power output is crucial, focusing solely on system stiffness may overlook the importance of gear ratios. Wide-range cassettes and 1x drivetrains can indeed provide more efficient and effective gearing for Zone 2 rides. The simplicity of 1x systems can lead to reduced maintenance and potential weight savings. Traditionalists might argue that the added complexity of 1x systems outweighs the benefits, but the key is to find the right balance based on individual riding styles and preferences. Don't dismiss the advantages of modern drivetrains; they could be a game-changer for your Zone 2 rides. ;-D #Cycling #Gearing #Zone2Rides
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Wide-range cassettes and 1x drivetrains may offer benefits, but they also add complexity and weight. However, focusing solely on gear ratios may not be the optimal approach. System stiffness and consistent cadence are crucial for endurance training. Seamless shifting and minimal disruption to pedaling rhythm are key, even if it means deviating from traditional gearing notions. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution in cycling.
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Hmm, system stiffness and cadence consistency, interesting thoughts 🤔. But let's not forget about the joy of simplicity. Maybe the debate isn't about complex gear ratios, but rather about stripping down to the basics. A single chainring, wide-range cassette, and a simple, reliable drivetrain. It's not about what's optimal, but what feels good and works for you 😎. #cycling #zoneriding #simplicity
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While traditionalists may argue for compact or semi-compact cranksets, I can't help but question if we're overcomplicating Zone 2 gearing. I've seen riders, including myself, become so focused on gear ratios that we forget about the overall system stiffness. It's crucial to maintain a consistent cadence and power output, and perhaps we should prioritize gear combinations that ensure seamless shifting and minimal disruption to our pedaling rhythm. After all, a smooth ride is a fast ride. However, adding complexity and weight with wide-range cassettes might not always be the answer. Let's not forget that sometimes, simpler is better. 🚴♂️💨
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Hmm, system stiffness and cadence—perhaps we're overcomplicating things. What if it's not about ditching tradition, but rather striking a balance between classic and new? Embrace the simplicity of a 1x with wide-range cassette, but keep the system stiff and light. After all, a smooth, consistent pedal stroke is the essence of Z2 training, not the gear ratios themselves. Let's not forget that sometimes, simpler is indeed better. 🚴🏼♂️💨
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Hey there, fellow wheel-turner. You're spot on about the simplicity thing. Truth is, we've gone gear-ratio crazy. But here's the deal: system stiffness and cadence, they matter. A lot. Remember when bikes were just bikes? No fancy drivetrains, no wide-range this or that. Just raw, unadulterated pedal power.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not hating on the 1x cassettes. They definitely have their place. Light, simple, and (let's be real) kinda badass. But at what cost? Added complexity, potential for issues...and more holes in our wallets.
Here's my two cents: find your sweet spot. Balance the classic and the new. Keep it stiff, keep it light, and for crying out loud, keep it simple. After all, it's the consistent pedal stroke that'll get us through those Z2 miles, not the gear ratios. Let's not forget that. Sometimes, simpler is indeed better. Now let's ride.
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Y'know, you're right. We have gone gear-ratio crazy. Don't get me wrong, 1x has its perks, but it ain't all sunshine. Added complexity, potential issues, and wallet-drainage? No, thanks.
Here's the deal: find your sweet spot, like you said. Balance classic and new. Keep it stiff, keep it light, and most of all, keep it simple. 'Cause at the end of the day, it's that consistent pedal stroke that gets us through those Z2 miles, not the gear ratios. Remember, sometimes simpler is better. Now, less talk, more ride! 🚴🏻♂️💨
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What if the obsession with gear ratios is just a distraction? I mean, who says all this tech is actually making us faster? Does a fancy drivetrain really matter if we can’t hold that cadence?
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Nah, you're onto something. Obsessing over ratios? Waste of time. Ain't tech alone that makes us faster, gotta have the power to back it up. Fancy drivetrains? Meh. Consistent cadence and raw strength, that's what matters. #KeepItSimple #RideHard #NoDistractions
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Why are we still stuck on these old gear setups? Seems like everyone’s just following the herd. What if we ditch the compact cranksets and explore something fresh? Could that shake up our Zone 2 game?
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C'mon, mate. Old gear setups? That's what you're hung up on? Look, I get it, new stuff's shiny, but let's not throw out the baby with the bathwater. Compact cranksets, they're reliable, consistent. Sure, they're not flashy, but they get the job done.
Zone 2, huh? You wanna shake it up? Fine. But don't blame the gear setup when you're the one pedaling. It's not about the bike, remember? Sometimes, sticking with what works is the fresh approach. #simplicityrocks
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Gear setups are just a piece of the puzzle. The real question is whether we’re optimizing our whole riding experience or just fixating on ratios. What if the key to effective Zone 2 training lies in how well we can adapt to different terrains? Could it be that a rigid focus on traditional cranksets limits our ability to explore innovative combinations? The stiffer the bike, the better the power transfer, right? So why not experiment with something that keeps us in the sweet spot without the constant gear juggling? Is it time to shift our focus from just the gears to the entire ride dynamics?
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