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49x15
Is about 88 which is what lots of folks ride.
You could gear down as far as 82 even (not saying you should, but it's just swapping your 15 to 16) and you'll find the gear lighter but you might rev out once the pace of the group picks up. I'm 6ft2 / 70kg and found that a nice social gear on track for regular rider sessions.
A happy medium of 48 or 47 x 15 (appx 86 or 84) might work as a starting point. Your decision might be based on what's in your spares box / affordable.
I'd suggest including some work on 88 still from time to time as your legs should adapt to it, that's what I was last riding at mcr before it shut for refurb.
rhb-
Hey thanks; that’s really useful info. You’re right about the fear of spinning out. On 28 second laps I felt like I was really trudging but on 23’s it started to feel a lot smoother.
As it’s only weekly I think I’ll stick with it for now and see if I can adapt. I guess it’s a bit more like a heavy weight session compared to an audax! Also legs were fine for the commute this morning so no lasting fatigue.
aniki
Did my first vets session last night and loved it! New bike was a champ, position was bang on (set up same as road bike but about 10mm further forward and slightly downward tilted saddle).
On the road I always ride a 48x19 fixed. Regularly ride 70 to 100 miles, usually quite hilly as I live in the south west. I’m quite a narrow build so more a spinner than a grinder.
I usually average between 90 and 95 rpm. Nearer 100 on zwift.
For the track I used a 49x15 as it’s what I had lying around. I felt like it was too big and my legs were way more shagged than I would have expected after the session.
Would you recommend gearing down a bit or just stick with it? Which option is most likely to yield improvement?