Chainrings can be classified based on the number of sprockets into single chainrings, double chainrings, and triple chainrings. Triple chainrings are currently mainly used on trekking bikes. In the realm of road cycling, the 1X chainring system, which is a single chainring, is becoming a trend, but most road bikes still use the 2X chainring system, which is a double chainring system.
The specifications of a double chainring are determined by two parameters: the number of teeth on the larger sprocket and the number of teeth on the smaller sprocket. We refer to a double chainring with a larger sprocket having 52 teeth and a smaller sprocket having 36 teeth as a 52/36T chainring or 52/36T crankset.
Standard Chainring and Compact Chainring
A standard chainring has a 53-tooth large chainring and a 39-tooth small chainring, known as a 53/39T chainring. A compact chainring has a 50-tooth large chainring and a 34-tooth small chainring, known as a 50/34T chainring.
Standard chainring – 53/39T
Compact chainring – 50/34T
As you can see, whether it is the larger chainring or the smaller chainring, the standard chainring has more teeth than the compact chainring. This gives road cyclists using a standard chainring a greater advantage when riding at high speeds. However, the 53/39T standard chainring also demands higher power output from the rider. If you don’t have stronger legs, it is recommended not to choose the 53/39T standard chainring.
On the other hand, the 50/34T compact chainring sacrifices some high-speed performance to enhance climbing capabilities. The 50/34T compact chainring is suitable for most road cyclists. It offers a nearly perfect balance between high-speed cruising and climbing for the vast majority of road cyclists. If your high-speed cruising speed does not exceed 47 kilometers per hour, you should not consider switching to a larger chainring.
If you are using a 50/34T compact chainring but feel that it increasingly fails to meet your needs in high-speed cruising segments, yet you are concerned that the 53/39T standard chainring might be too large for you, then a 52/36T chainring is also a good option. It falls between the standard chainring and the compact chainring.
Overall, a 50/34T compact chainring is sufficient for most road cyclists for a lifetime. If you are attempting to become a professional road cyclist, you can consider using a 52/36T chainring or a 53/39T standard chainring when you feel the 50/34T compact chainring cannot provide higher speeds in use. Only professional world-class cyclists choose chainrings larger than the 53/39T standard chainring, and SUMLON does not recommend you try it easily.
By the way, SUMLON has been manufacturing bicycle parts for over 15 years. Contact us if you are looking for a bike parts factory or a one-stop wholesaler. Peace
