44 vs 48

[Wildfire]

I am converting an old MTB to a commuter and essentially everything I haven't replaced as systematically failed.

I have purchased a brand new Shimano Deore chainset, which looks very nice and light, but they have sent me the 44 tooth version, as opposed to the 48 tooth which I asked for.

I have a sponsered ride to do in 2 weeks and need the bike to train on asap.

Will I notice the difference? Or should I just live with the 44 tooth set?

The rear cassette is 8 speed 11-30.

[snotrag]

Spinning out on a 44-11 is pretty fricking fast for a 26" wheeled bike. Keep the chainset, I'd be surprised if it causes an issue!?

[pdV6]

snotrag said:

Spinning out on a 44-11 is pretty fricking fast for a 26" wheeled bike. Keep the chainset, I'd be surprised if it causes an issue!?

This. Spinning out an MTB downhill using 44-11 on slicks, I'm hitting 37+ mph which is plenty for commuting. On the flat I'm usually nowhere near that, so it's not really going to be an issue unless you have thighs like Chris Hoy.

[Raven Flyer]

The circumference of a 26" wheel is approx 2.2m. 44-11 give you a multiplier of exactly 4.0. 4.0x2.2m x cadence x 60minutes/1600 gives your speed in mph.

4.0x2.2x90x60/1600 = just under 30mph for a fast pedal rate.

To look at it another way...

To do 36mph with those cogs, your cadence will be...

36mph x 1600m/mile / (60 minutes x 2.2m x 4.0 multiplier) = 109 rpm

16mph is a very leisurely 48rpm. You will be fine on your sponsored ride.

[Swalsey]

There is a rish that your front mech will not work with the larger ring - check out the mech compatibility.

Antony

[M400 NBL]

There might be times that you wish you had the larger chain ring.

I have a 48T on my Cannondale because i'm limited to the size because of the frame.

The rear cassette is a conker block with 11 the smallest I think, and I could sometimes do with a larger chain ring.

I would say that if it fits, go for the 48T and a pair of 25mm Conti grand prix tyres. Unless there are narrower tyres these days.