Advantages and disadvantages of 48x18 vs. 48x17?

edmundane just get a lockring tool, 2 sprockets, change them and see how you feel like. or get a double fixed hub.

only you can decide what gear you want to use.

kilgore_trout is this a serious question?
IMHO the difference of something like 4GI is entirely about preference and personal strength/feeling

that's exactly why i said the above