What is the smallest chainring you can have on a 144 crankset?

I have a Sugino 75 crank which is has 144 BCD. I currently have a 44T chainring but want to down size due to injury! Is there a minimum size ring that fits a 144 BCD as I can't seem to find anything below a 42T? Anyone know??

how about putting a bigger cog on the back, say a 17t/18t/19t?

i thought it was 44T?! as the BCD gets caught up teeth. would be cheaper to change rear sprocket, instead of £40 chainring ;)

This is a 35tooth 144mm bcd chainring, they are becoming pretty rare.. ;-)

^above image via http://www.classicrendezvous.com

A quick google reveals Sugino Zen Mess 144 bcd 42T..
http://shop.vendio.com/benscycle/item/875912727/index.html

What am I missing? This took like 2 seconds to find. Oh, "Smaller" than 42. Pass. Don't think so. Bigger cog.

I believe a 40t is the smallest. Shimano made their first Gen Dura Ace (1970's) road cranks a smaller BCD just so you could fit smaller than 39t

Very good point indeed. Ok, I currently have a 44T on the front and 17T on the rear. I was going to drop down to 36T on the front. What would be the equivalent on the rear? 20T or 22T?

Does it have to be a Sugino ring? Is that what I'm missing here?

no it don't... just has to fit...

Use a gear calculator to work out your current gear inches.. then fit cog that will drop it to the same as 36x17T or whatever you want.

http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gears/

A 21T should do it.

@prav, that is funny

36:17 = 44:21

31t®um @prav, that is funny

both funny and informative I hope!

pechacheli no it don't... just has to fit...

http://www.sjscycles.co.uk/product-Specialites_TA-TA-144mm-PCD-old-Campagnolo-Chainring-205.htm

I'm using one of these just now. 44t to 41t - is that the drop you're looking for?

thanks guys.. i worked it out as 21 as well.. think i may go for a 22 for extra slack!

44:21.....are you riding up mountains to work?!? spinny spin spin!

OP did mention injury.. I reckon the low-geared flailing might cause more damage! :D

If it helps I reduced my gearing for about two weeks due to knee injury. Then stopped being silly and went back to a 73 GI as it involves less spinning and therefore less usage of my knee.
As an additioinal question, you are running a brake right?

My Physio thinks it could be the starts that are causing my injury since I have to get out of the saddle everytime! I have no problems with cadence as I am used to it from time trailing but I do encounter a few hills on my commute. I am very reluctant to sell my S/Speed so want to adjust it to help rather than hinder! Object I am running a brake! Don't trust drivers!!

IN which case 44*21 should be pretty much ideal for you.
Plus you can play Polo on that gear :]

Always fancied playing the posh sport :P

Even if you only turn up to watch the first few times it's well worth attending.

Where is it played?

NE corner of brick ln and bethnal green rd E1