GEAR RATIOS & STEMS

[Matt1973]

OK - firstly my apologies for yet another dumb newbie question (or two)....

Recently bought a very tidy Phase 1.2 and am looking to convert to single speed. For know I'm sticking with the O/E cranks running a 22t chain ring. My question here is what size am I best running on the back end? Trash Zen suggest a 19t. I can mess around with the cassette for know and find my own 'zen' but am just keen to hear about anybody elses experience.

Also, the steerer has been trimmed down to it lowest possible length leaving me with no option to add a spacer, and the lean is starting to get really uncomfortable. So, I'm thinking of a longer and/or taller stem. Again, I'd appreciate any suggestions. I believe the Phase has a +5mm BB, but not sure what other factors to consider (I'm 6ft if that's relevant).

Guys, please try and refrain from knocking my choice of bike, I appreciate many people seem to think its pretty cr*p, but I got it for a real good deal, it's what I could afford and I'm loving riding it

THANKS FOR YOUR HELP

[isitafox]

I won't knock it, I always recommend a Phase for learners wnating a 26" as the geometry is pretty neutral and it's a good base to upgrade from over time.

In terms of gear ratio I personally would go for an 18t sprocket on the back, that would make the ratio just slightly heavier than most stock riders run (standard stock ratio of 18-15 is 1.2, 22-18 is 1.22 whereas 22-19 is 1.15 which is quite a jump).

As for the stem I'm not 100% sure what the standard setup is (assuming that is what you currently have) but I'd recommend starting with a new set of riser bars first like some Trialtech high rise. The last time I rode a Phase the standard bar and stem wasn't very comfortable so even with a new stem the bars may still feel a bit poor.