Just read that the original Shimano Dura-Ace groupset from 1973 had a 5-speed freewheel, which seems wild compared to today's 12-speed setups. Where did you first learn about vintage component specs? | Bicycle Mechanics - nhfree.com
Just read that the original Shimano Dura-Ace groupset from 1973 had a 5-speed freewheel, which seems wild compared to today's 12-speed setups. Where did you first learn about vintage component specs?
Honestly, the jump from 5 to 12 speeds is cool, but I'm not sure it's that huge a deal for most riders. My old 8-speed bike shifts just fine, and I doubt I'd even use all 12 gears. Sometimes it feels like the bike industry just makes up new things for us to buy.
Disagree on the 12 speeds not being useful. Having those extra gears helps you find the perfect one for any hill or headwind, so you can keep a steady pace. Don't you find yourself between gears sometimes on your 8-speed?