Shimano 1x vs 2x | Which Drive Train Is Better For Mountain Biking?

[@Pienimusta]

Used to be: "I have 27 gears" , "ooh, thats so cool, i have only 21" Nowadays: "I have 11 gears", "wow, thts so cool, i still have 'only' 27"

[@jaytam1]

+pienimusta Thks for pointing this out. Goes to show so called new bike tech these days they have ran out of ideas and SRAM started to tell people if you want a lighter bike with less maintenance than ditch some ratios! But they haven't found a solution to close up those ratio gaps.

[@2wheelsonline]

11 gears is OK if you just ride bike parks. But you need more gears if you ride natural terrain with steep climbs.

[@simonfarr8670]

that's a lame complaint. most 3x8 drivetrains have a pretty lousy effective gear ratio, 15 gears at best, 3 or more that you'll probably never use outside of a downhill road. wide ratio cassettes are here to stay, and 1x or 2x is up to rider preference.

[@2wheelsonline]

Yep... rider preference and terrain if it's 1x or 2x. I've just converted my 2x10 speed to 2x11 speed after I killed my 10 speed rear mech. My lowest 10 speed gear before was 36/24 (1.5) and now is 40/24 (1.666) with a larger cassette fitted. Top gear stays the same, 34/11. I have also just got today a 32T single speed crank. My lowest gear with that fitted will be 40/32 (1.25) but I would need to change the cassette and front ring to 50/30 (1.666) to get what I have now with my 2x. And I have bigger variety of gears with 2x :-) I haven't tried either 11 speed set up yet but will do soon.

[@simonfarr8670]

sometimes I think matching ratios are overrated, 1x is always going to be limited, and while SRAM Eagle groupsets now allow you that very 50/30 setup, I can't see myself needing that after a very painful year of a 32/32 setup that still got me up most hills with the right kind of grunt.

[@schlooonginator1227]

I still like my 3X set up, and heres why... I am admittedly old skool and back in the day a mountain bike was a mountain bike. There was no "XC, Trail, Enduro, Free ride, all mountain and DH specific bikes. It was a bike that did it all,simple. I still adhere to this principle, not just because its old skool but because its way cheaper and, in a way, more fun. When I go for a ride I grab my bike, I don't have to ponder the specific terrain I will ride, I just go and figure it out. In a way, all this specialization has sapped soome of the fun and freedom that mountain biking used to entail with people expected to have a quiver of bikes, this turns off a lot of people considering the prices of bikes. I have a 3X on a hardtail 29er that I have customized via tires and things like handle bars and stems to fit my riding. My one bike takes me anywhere and this is, to me, the true essense of mountain biking.

[@pudsboi5203]

schlooonginator couldn't have said it better 👍

[@schlooonginator1227]

I don't drive but live in the city with the nearest legal mtb area a road/rail trail 45minute ride away. This is where I use the big ring. Once I get to the trail its the middle, then the granny to climb the fire road hill to the top then back to the middle for the trails down then back to the big for my ride home... All fun, all on one bike. Don't let the marketing fool you folks, you can have just one bike and do it all and have fun too. Oh and in the summer, I attach a Bob Yak and go camping! Same damn bike! What is even better, I never am at a trail where I am thinking,"Oh damn, I should have brought my blah blah bike." And ride the trail thinking I would have more fun on the "right" bike.

[@1barnet1]

Your right. Back then it was all terrain hardtail Bikes all terrain softtail Bikes Downhill must take the lift up bikes

[@frotocsr]

That's cool, but modern bikes are also still mountain bikes. Don't get too hung up on marketing speak.

[@enlightenedidiot9552]

schlooonginator My comment with shorter, but exactly the same as you :-)

[@onlyonecannoli3952]

I'll approach this from the perspective that's seldom discussed, but is perhaps the most important one. The decision has a lot to do with the weight of your bike, your own weight, and (most importantly) your power to weight ratio and fitness. If you are on a light bike, are light yourself, and are in good shape, then your power to weight ratio and fitness will likely allow you to either use a cassette with more closely spaced gearing without requiring such wide low gear spacing or a cassette with wider gearing will not affect you as much. If you're that guy, then a 1-11/1-12 setup may be just what you want, because you are able to climb easily within that range even with larger gaps in gearing. And if you like that type of setup, then it is absolutely perfect for you. If you are on the heavier side, regardless of fitness, and/or your bike is heavier, then you may want to consider 2-3 chainring arrangements upfront with a smaller cassette with less gear separation. The advantages are that it will 1) let you maintain the right cadence to maximize your output while minimizing your pedaling effort (you won't gas out as quickly); 2) You will be able to dial in a better gear on the flats, not just on climbs; and 3) You will be able to tackle those longer steeper climbs much better than you would with a 1x setup. The 1x setups are all the rage now, but they are not necessarily simpler as often described or the best choice for everyone. Yes, it is 1x so you are not dealing with a front derailleur and an additional shifter and chainring, but now you've added an exceptionally larger/heavier cassette and longer chain that results in more chain slap, requiring derailleurs with clutch mechanisms to pick up the slack and chain guides (as seen in this video) to keep the chain from popping off at the crank. A properly functioning 2-3 front chainring setup is always going to provide better gearing options. An electric shifter/derailleur combo is the ideal solution. Provides quick and accurate shifting, even under load, and provides seamless transitions even when shifting the front and rear at the same time (at least they do in road bikes). That would allow one to have the best of both worlds. Proper gearing for any condition and simple and effortless shifting. And I am 100% right because I said so. What more proof do you need ;-)

[@Papafou]

great video. I am a big fan of 2x. I need it for the climbs and to keep consistent cadence. for me versatility wins over simplicity

[@stanpol1921]

They missed the one of the most important factors. This is that chain alignment with the 1 by drivetrain is very poor. Meaning that the chain is running bend towards the cassette and chainwheel. Meaning that you lose watts and chain wear is increased on the 1by therefore, you go through more chain on the 1by that on the 2by. This why I prefer 2 by.

[@aranyoga1322]

roadie

[@TheRoadrunner11]

You do realize these guys are paid to promote new stuff. Otherwise they wouldn't even have this fancy gear. I always take what they say with a huge pinch of salt. 1x is a fad that has no real benefit except simplicity and couple of grams of weight ,but lots of downsides just like press fit BBs.

[@ricardog4459]

@Maciej Jan Długosz never heard of that before. it'd be really nice

[@ricardog4459]

@Maciej Jan Długosz thanks! yeah i googled it. now i am wondering what could fail when you start adding more parts lol. to be honest i still like 2x drivetrains. but maybe this will make them obsolete eventually

[@onlyonecannoli3952]

@@aranyoga1322 That was great.

[@Toejamscruff]

Shoutout to the sound person! Incredible clarity and "muck" noise as they're cycling through mud! The camera and sound people really make these videos extra special!

[@Mathesius1990]

2019, anyone still on 3x9 like me? :-D

[@ちょこころね-i1k]

3x7 :D

[@hfbvc9480]

Mathesius1990 On 3x9 on my specialised stumpy 2007

[@AHMADIZHARBINSAHAMIN]

me :D

[@jedimanultra]

11-34 rear and 27-38-42 front- thinking of converting to 1x with a 32 up front

[@deepakgurung3853]

I used 3x10 15kg bike

[@shreder2713]

3x10 XT/XTR on both my 26' bikes, runs perfect for me

[@JS-ck2rx]

I'm in the 2x group. Living in Yorkshire I'm going uphill just as much as I'm going down. Spending time on both mountain bike and road bike I can't handle big gaps in the cassette, like my cadence to be comfortable. Having said that on my 2x I very rarely drop my chain. Thanks for the vid guys!

[@bazzdove8236]

I use my 29er hardtail as a commuter bike as well, with another set of wheel with road tyres. I need 2x to have enough top end speed on the road.

[@JeffWagen]

Bazz Dove same here

[@enlightenedidiot9552]

Bazz Dove Exactly. I ditched my road bike and older MTB for an Orbea 29er hardtail. 3x10 and 2 wheelsets, perfect :)

[@fusion01wp]

Bazz Dove could run a 36t front on a 10-50 rear, even a 38t front if no huge climbs, all on SRAM eagle.

[@hristohristov6330]

sram eagle costs 10 times more. It is absurd

[@cutty02]

@@fusion01wp 36 x 11 is not gonna give enough speed

[@trevfirefy8179]

I love being able to quickly drop into the lower sprocket on the 2x when the trail takes an abrupt change uphill

[@McLambo]

This!

[@missionmatthew]

Agree!

[@richarde1355]

Or even drop more with a 3x! That extra 1/4 pound or so of weight helps keep my legs happy...

[@BlackMan614]

Or drop your chain. 1x all the way.

[@blacklight4460]

3x - I prefer the smooth feel and quiet of a straight chain line, along with super low climbing gears and a faster top gear.

[@Kayvoyager]

Yeah man. Totally agree, but this stupid trend with 1x system is so strong...people stop using the brain I think.

[@baggelisnanos9363]

So there's someone that feels me XD

[@playgroundchooser]

@A Google User Add snowboarding, backpacking, and even physics videos to that list too! Very good observation.

[@firetrail]

As long as you enjoy your ride, no matter what bike you are riding between your legs. The important thing is you must bring a sweaty jersey back home, a tired happy face and a bucket of burned calories...

[@Munchkinross]

Personally, I really love my 2x10 drivetrain. I moved from a 3x8 system which was a bit cumbersome, but the 2x10 system is really versatile without being cumbersome. On the trails that I ride, some parts can be technical and the need to switch from high to low gears quickly is very easy on a 2x system, the opposite is true when reaching a peak and going down a hill and switching to higher gears quickly. Also it seems I can ride faster down hills on the 2x drivetrain, and steep hills are easier on the 2x drive train. Seems the range on a 2x drivetrain is higher. The extra weight is well worth it to keep my 2x drivetrain.

[@stanley3647]

Same: 29" Wheels and 2x10 setup. 39/26 front 11/36 back. Good quality deraileaurs (shimano XT front, sram X0 back), regular chain replacement. Everything works as a clock. Lot better than my original setup: 3x10 (44/33/22) with same casette at back...

[@seaneeeg1]

Stan ley : couldn’t agree MORE with both of you!!!!!! Ive already posted numerous times on this video, because I know this is the HOTTEST topic in Mt Biking right now...holding hands with THE WHEEL SIZE debate! Been riding/racing for 30 plus years...Mt, Road & Cyclo...from what I have seen, experienced and researched..IMHO..2x is the BIGGEST winner...I feel 3x is just an overkill if your an experienced rider of any kind...I can do ANYTHING in ALL applications with 2x...so generally speaking 2x is KING!!! And I have customized various configurations of 2x based on ROAD or MOUNTAIN biking! And I will say the only real WINNER for a 1x application (and it’s worth the switch)...IF....You are a strong experienced Mt Biker that really only rides TECHNICAL, TIGHT, ELEVATED Singletrack!!!!!! And that’s my view if you ride 26”, 27 1/2” or 29” wheels!!!!!! I still ride an old school 26” Ellsworth Truth that currently rides a customized 2x9 drivetrain. I am switching to a 1x11 after much research, thought and experimentation! I only ride my Mt Bike on the type of Singletrack I mentioned before! And I am very excited to try it!!! Let me know what your thoughts and experiences have come up with!!!!!!!!

[@jfrtbikgkdhjbeep9974]

@@stanley3647 i would just lose the 22 chainring

[@jfrtbikgkdhjbeep9974]

@@seaneeeg1 i agree with 2x up front, BUT my ideal 2x is without that low gear .. 3-2-1 to 3-2 see?

[@ellenoz1]

I'm a XC Marathon 2x9 advocate for many years and the only change I'll make is to move to a 2x10 when I'm much older in maybe 15 years time.. 2x Rules for me.!!

[@summerjunk929]

Was looking at 1x but after watching this vid and reading the comment think I will stick with my 2x

[@seaneeeg1]

alex clough : GREAT CHOICE MY MAN!!!!!!!! Customize and tinker with that 2x...MAKE IT YOUR OWN!!!! 2x....THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE 😜

[@CrustyCrip]

Previous bike was 3x9. Went for 1x11 on current bike because it was cheap. It's obvious now that was a bad decision, should have selected 2x10.

[@bobbyhempel1513]

All the 1× bikes I've seen are more expensive than any 3×

[@richarde1355]

Why do you think it was a bad decision?

[@CrustyCrip]

@@richarde1355 The lowest isn't quite low enough. The highest isn't high enough. However I will admit that a 1x11 drivetrain is more reliable and gear selection is less complex; the chain hasn't derailed or jammed, like the 3x9 would occasionally. Still, I would have bought a 2x10 had price not been an issue.

[@richarde1355]

Ed Arnold Totallt agree; 2x gives you a wider spectrum of gear choices. How much more was the 2x option?

[@CrustyCrip]

@@richarde1355 Don't know. When I bought a Pivot Mach 4 in 2015, the configuration that included 2x10, forced the purchaser to also buy other high-cost options, such as premium fork & wheels. It looks like Pivot isn't offering any 2x drivetrains now; their current bikes come with SRAM 1x12, or Shimano 1x11 or 1x12.

[@littlepiggydogonig1415]

i have a pos £160 hard tail but it does the job. gonna put a 780mm bar and 50mm stem because it's currently at 600mm and 110mm, get new peddles, lock on grips and change it from grip shift to thumb shifters and get a loud ass electronic horn just for the bants

[@bullwhipjohnson8247]

littlepiggydog What's a bants? And do you mean posh as in Port Out Starboard Home? ie. P.O.S.H. Accommodations?

[@littlepiggydogonig1415]

bullwhip johnson pos = piece of shit and bants = funny/hilarity/for the jokes/just because

[@puka6043]

50mm stem? I think this thing is hard to buy cheaply. 60 and 40mm are cheaper. 780 are great but really long. I will cut mine.

[@littlepiggydogonig1415]

puka only buying cheap ebay parts, not gonna fork out loads on upgrading a cheap bike. if it doesnt work out i can just put the original stuff on it but you can get 50mm stems really cheap on ebay. also im 6'6 so my hand positioning is wider from what ive heard the 780 will be good for me

[@StrikeNDecayOfficial]

littlepiggydog on IG don't buy cheap parts from ebay, goto your local bike shop and ask what they have for inexpensive bars and stems even old ones, if you value your life you won't trust cheap chinese shit

[@ronaldtartaglia4459]

believe it or not I still run a 3 by on the front of my GT sensor. my terrain where I ride goes from extremely technical to 600 foot climbs to Wide Open Fire roads. And sometimes I actually ride from my front door to the mountain so I use every single gear and every single ring when I go riding. especially when I'm on down hill fire roads I'm in Top Gear Full Throttle and I pedal away from every single person that doesn't have that extra big third ring on the front.

[@bdscott86]

I picked up a 14 sensor expert. Dude had put a 1x11 on it and it was terrible. Tried out a 1x12 and not much better compared the 3x9 on the 26 I was riding previously, definitely swapping out to at least a 2x. I see plenty of people in my area rocking the 1x and they climb pitifully slow unless they are in top shape.

[@nickhepler533]

Honestly I think some day cassettes are gonna be bigger than wheels

[@willjepson7770]

Nick Hepler "introducing new 24 speed 1x with 12 teeth in the bAck and 104 in the highest gear"

[@jimleonardros1126]

Maybe soon

[@minners71]

A bit like razors. What are they upto now? 5 blades when 1 used to do the job better.

[@mkygod]

yeah who needs wheels and tires anyways? Just ride straight on the gears.

[@celsomonteiro6541]

Just replace the rear tire with a huge cassette! xD

[@mtb4l673]

I'm still riding my single-speed tricycle. Hope that's good enough

[@jasper_of_puppets]

I'm riding my 21-speed unicycle. Beat that.

[@marcelziokowski8916]

Good one

[@tetsuclaw]

As long as you are happy with it and it gets you out riding then that is all that matters.

[@philldavies7940]

Christ on a bike, when did my penny farthing go out of fashion?

[@studentofthegr8art]

pfft, i'm rolling hoops with a stick. can't get more oldschool than that

[@jetsgo66]

Recently switched from 2x to 1x and am loving it so far.

[@ricofiori3327]

To calculate overlap (gear-inch) multiply the diameter of the drive wheel by yield number of teeth in the front then divide by the number of teeth in the rear cassette. If you have three chain rings and ten cogs you will have thirty gear-inch numbers. The overlaps are a good thing for two reasons: the chain is not overly stretched and you can dynamically shift several gear inches using the front derailleur, for example, when the downhill turns and goes up abruptly.

[@magnusm.6513]

I still love my 3x9, because I'm old school: I do the 20 km transit to the nearest mountain by cycling not by car. So I like my big chain ring. I also ride my bike up to the top with looong steep ascents. So I like my small chain ring. And I wouldn't wanna miss the ergonomy of my bar ends!

[@andrewbarkley5645]

I live in South Africa and much of the time it is necessary to ride 20kms on tar before we get to the mountain. we also have beautiful scenery which requires lengthy tar rides. If I could afford 2 bikes I would opt for both 1x and 2x bikes, possibly a trail unit and xc and an additional road bike for good measure. Since I simply can't afford all these lovely machines I must settle for a 2x xc hardtail with a set of slick tyres for those 100km road rides. In an ideal world we would all own 5 purpose built rigs but this is a money question more than a preference one.

[@seaneeeg1]

LOVE IT ANDREW!!!!! WELL SAID!!!! WELL SAID!!!! You would if you could, because you KNOW what the deal is!!!!! You can’t $$$ so you went with the KING 👑 OF CLUTTER-LESS VERSATILITY...THE 2x !!!!!! RIDE ON MY BROTHA!!!! I’m right there with ya!!!!😎👍💪🏻

[@hugoburton5222]

I run a 1x and it's great. The 1 disadvantage is if you're in the easiest gear (or second easiest) and you pedal backwards really fast, it causes the chain to drop down to a harder gear

[@Mububban23]

I'm a skinny low powered rider. I have a compact 50-34 crank and 11-32 cassette on my road bike, and I use every one of my easy gears when climbing. I recently bought a 1x11 dual sus MTB with 32 crank and 11-46 cassette. Took it up a ~1km 8% climb covered in slippery dry dusty pea gravel, and did not run out of gears. So 1x is fine for even us low powered spinners, much like a 34-32 is great on road. I love the simplicity, not that I didn't know how to intuitively shift gears after a lifetime of practise on 3x gearing, but not having to shift the front chain rings is just one less thing to think about. So far it's all positives and no negatives.

[@reeepingk]

Like mentioned in the video, 1x systems are really only for strong riders (or small hills.) We have a group that consistently rode on the trails around here in Bozeman (where the trails are known for going straight up the mountain) and only the top 5-10% (typically one or two people) of us could use 1x systems successfully. (Without pushing the bike up lots of hills.) My friend's lowest gear on his 1x was about my 3rd or 4th gear on my old school triple. So if you're not sure if you can use a 1x, try to pedal up a hill without using your easiest two gears. I tried, and I can, but it's hard, and I consider myself a strong rider. (Note, I say the top 5-10 percent, but none of us are slouches. 70-80% of us are probably above average in terms of mountain bike skills/fitness. ) Honestly, do yourself a favor, if you're on the fence, go with a 2x. If you could push a 1x you'd know it and you'd already have one.

[@budesmatpicu3992]

btw, anyone can unscrew one chainring to look 2x cool&trendy ;-)

[@harvey3220]

Sram Eagle with a 28 or 30 chain ring.

[@seamus136]

To be fair, trying to pedal up hill without your easiest two gears isn't the way to test this. The big ring on 3x systems generally has 40-44 teeth, whereas the middle ring has 30-32. That's much closer to the 30-32 tooth rings on 1x's and the 36 tooth big ring on 2x's. So, for a more accurate test, you're much better off riding your typical trails as an experiment with just your middle ring. If you can manage it, you're probably going to be ok with any 2x or 1x system that has a slightly bigger cassette range than your current 3x.

[@gnawershreth]

It's also just a matter of the gear fitting your riding style though, some people climb with a crazy cadence while others "power" up climbs in a higher gear. If the 1x doesn't fit your riding style you're really going to hate it, and you're shit out of luck with a 1x system as you're obviously missing quite a lot of "in between gears" compared to 2x.

[@Kayvoyager]

1x is such a stupid trend. No real advantages only disadvantages. Take one or two chainrings from front but put 3 bigger in the back. So no weight loss. Only loose gears and range. So where's the real reason. I think real reason is Sram incompetence to make a good front derailleur and eliminate this problem making a new (&stupid) trend.

[@JTManuel]

I like the 2x drivetrain. It gives me a bailout gear for emergencies.

[@andypaul999]

1x11 XT , but to be honest i prefered my old 2x10 XT.

[@Romanistamessicano]

me too

[@datogadelia]

why?

[@tkeffer]

2X - More range - Less chain cross up - Bigger front chain ring, more high end speed.

[@MichaelAyden]

Which is faster or which gets to higher top speed- A three sprocket ring system at the front or a newer 2 or 1 system??? I have a cross country MTB with a 3x system at the front and ride through woods, country lanes and long stretches of road. My absolutely go-every-where bike basically. I like the fact that it does what a mountain bike does but can be fast and maintain speed like a road bike on the roads if you get my meaning. It seems most mountain bikes now have the 1x or 2x system and I'm worried that if I get one I'd lose my speed. That tougher to push on 3rd sprocket that really pushes you faster and faster. Sure my legs can peddle faster but would I reach max peddle speed without gaining any more speed on a 2x than I would on a 3x with its nice big sprocket at the front?

[@keirfarnum6811]

That’s exactly what I thought would be the case. A 1X would never have worked when I was racing in Alaska in the 90s.

[@andrewince8824]

Or, given that a 50t is rather too large, put a bigger chainring on a 1x. I went up to 36t from 32t. 32:50 is a 1:0.64 ratio. 36:50 is a 1:0.75 ratio. If you're a fancy buggar and have a 52t at the biggest, you can run a 38t up front and still have a 1:0.74 ratio at the climbiest end yet up to a 1:3.8 ratio for speed. The only way to get a higher speed ratio is to run a colossal chainring up front. A second gear on the front doesn't help with extra speed and realistically it would never be used with the biggest ring out back. A 22:42 gearing is only 1:0.52, anything requiring that ratio is better know as a sheer cliff.

[@timothykiefer2289]

I used to my biggest front chain ring on my mountain bike to be 48t so its harder for me to switch to 1x where my legs spin like crazy

[@jfrtbikgkdhjbeep9974]

@@MichaelAyden stay with 3x or lose the small gear up front and go 2x .. that 1x low is a bit much,, i miss my 3x

[@edwardjski]

After watching this video and reading the comments, my temptation to convert my 2011 3x9 to a sexy "modern" 1x has been eliminated. I have a mountain bike in order to go anywhere, up/down/across etc. Why would I want to limit or diminish that potential just to look cool or be more modern/fashionable? Thanks to all who commented here, your input has had an impact on my decision.

[@seaneeeg1]

Ed Janiszewski GREAT REACTION ED!!!!!!!! YUP...if the word VERSATILITY appears anywhere in your riding style...STOP!!!!! Educate, Research and Experiment with your plans!!! My bet is a customized 2x WILL REIGN SUPERIOR AGAIN!!!!!!! Well done Ed!!!

[@richarde1355]

There you go! Think for yourself, use logic, and don't follow the herd!

[@enzojacobsen4349]

The simplicity of a 1x by is undeniable. I have a 2x and wish to change to 1x just because it means I won't have to use the annoying front shifters. I mainly do singletrack or jumps so a 1x is easier to use

[@garrycooper8967]

I have a SRAM 1x11 on my cylocross bike and I find I run out of gears on downhills, so 2x or even 3x would be better.

[@alangilmour4269]

I’ve got a 2x11 105 group set on my cyclocross bike it makes it a really versatile bike , it got two sets of wheels and goes anywhere and does everything

[@seaneeeg1]

Yup I would never go 1x on ANYTHING other than a Mt Bike with a specific application of tight technical elevated Single Track...EVERYTHING ELSE...IMHO...HAS TO BE 2x or 3x!!!! I have been riding/racing, Road, Mt & Cyclo for nearly 30 plus years & ive ridden the full spectrum of applications...so if yer on the fence about whether or not you should switch...examine your application and act accordingly!!!! DONT BE PRESSURED INTO MARKETING HYPE!!!! I am very confident in my analysis! Hope I’ve helped Somebody 🥴

[@hiro111]

To me, the big advantage of 2x is being able to dump and pick up a large amount of gear ratio instantaneously by shifting the front. This is hugely helpful through ravines. Also, 2x is great on a fat bike as snow as you typically need both rings for snow riding. 2x is less necessary for people who ride long climbs followed by long descents. The big advantage of 1x is suspension packaging. As mentioned elsewhere, Eagle solves a lot of the gear spacing issues.

[@irvmtb1422]

I had a 3X but I wasn’t using the big chain ring much and I didn’t like all the exposed teeth. So I replaced the big ring with a bash guard and switched the shifter to work as 2x. Only lost the highest ratio that was mostly for the road anyway. I really like having the granny for climbs and still be able to pedal on descents with the bigger chainring.

[@danielburge2478]

I run a 2x on a BMC Fourstroke. I'm used to the freedom that it provides and I like to keep a fairly consistent cadence. I can often just shift down at the front to accommodate a terrain change from flat to a climb, instead of having to shift multiple rings at the back. The weight advantage is irrelevant to me as my bike is already very light (and I could always lose a few lbs myself). Unsprung weight (wheels, lower fork arms, rear triangle on a full sus, and rear derailleur and cassette) is far more important than sprung weight anyway; ask a vehicle engineer. I imagine that 1x is the future though as it will end up cheaper to produce and most riders don't select the best ratios and push too high a gear as it is, so 2x will be lost on them.

[@whirving]

I agree with the ability to make big changes with the front chain ring, I do that all the time. I do have a bike with a 1x11 and found I could almost get the same effect with grip shift. I can drop 4 gears or shift up in about the same amount of time, still, not as versatile in gear range.

[@jackdough8164]

I’m sticking with 2x myself. Being able to drop the front chain ring fast on quick steep climbs is great plus having so many gears to choose from helps on my 100+ k rides when you need a break but want to keep moving.

[@denishuber7758]

Im still on 3x9...on my full suspension bike..it gives me the best gear ratios i need...

[@alex098186]

1x is overated because of the weight savings. Moreover, it crosses the chain to an extreme causing faster wear to the drivetrain and in some cases won't allow backpedaling at 1st gear. When doing so, it faulty shifts to higher gear.

[@JMBMTB]

thats very specific to certain drivetrains, you'd find there is actually a lot of 11spd drivetrains that are fine backpedalling in 1st gear and the chains for 1x are better designed so they won't wear any faster than a normal chain on a normal drivetrain so no it's not at all overrated, it's just good

[@MrJamesLuz]

alex098186 my 1x9 setup doesn't cross the chain anywhere near as bad as a 3x9 setup. The bonus is that it has made me a much better and stronger rider.

[@alex098186]

MrJamesLuz, if you are crossing the chain on a 3x9, you probably shift in a poor manner. With all the respect, I found the following link that can help you figure how to shift properly. www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/bike-gears-and-shifting.html

[@MrJamesLuz]

alex098186 well, my current setup is a 1x9 so I can't cross the chain. Maybe I should install a front derailleur so I can learn how people learned to shift back in the day? My point was that a 2x10 or 3x9 has more potential to stress a chain than a simple 1x9. My other bike is a single speed, so I can't learn to shift that one either.

[@alex098186]

James Bridgland, I disagree. I cannot share your opinion that 1x is as good as a 2x system. My observation and findings come from many years of riding. I have tested alldrivetrain combos (except 1x12 which is ridiculously expensive). Plenty of 1x9 or even 1x10 systems can get away with a little backpedal in first gear but that has to do with the frame's chainline. I have never seen this happen with a 1x11, even on a modern day frame that is designed without a front derailleur mount. I am not saying that 1x is no good, but it really annoys me to see that companies in the mtb industry have jumped to the conclusion that the front derailleur is obsolete. If you opt racing for max speed and aim at climbing ability, then 2x is the way to go. On the other hand, why do companies still offer crappy 3x drivetrains on entry level mountain bikes? Why not impose this new and improved 1x technology and make ‘em simple to use? That way they will be able to attract more people to the sport. I see a lot of individuals that struggle with poor shifting performance during their rides and it’s all because of the complexity of having to deal with a lot at the same time. IMO, things should be easier for newcomers and more complex to advanced riders. Not the other way around.

[@anthonyla73]

i have gone back to a 2x system after a short stint running 1x. just found it too hard on the legs doing steep climbs. now i am running 32 and 22 on the front and 11 to 42 at the rear.

[@saturupiah5940]

G'day Anthony. You must live near some hilly terrain. I ride 26/36 on the front and 11/40 on the back. It has roughly the same range as 34 on the front and a 10/50 at the back. But smaller increments.

[@soliranje]

I use 3x too because I am not pro rider (DH, enduro etc) and I enjoy riding MTB to relax. My set up is 3x10 with 22-30-40 in front and 11-42T on my cassette. This set up allows me to ride anywhere. Climbing is easy and I can do long trails. I ride 80-130km a day and with this set up it is not any problem.

[@louiegallego973]

As my Uncle Vin Diesel once said: “ It doesnt matter whats under a hood, the only thing that matters is who’s behind the wheel”

[@timothykiefer2289]

You can go anywhere with your bike with whatever gear ratios you have as long as you have “family”

[@riomurdoch6471]

u don’t need a bike when u have family

[@freemanadriv02]

As a weekend rider I'm sticking to 2x because of the versatility. I'm on a budget so I'm not a weight weenie. My 11-42 10 speed Deore setup with my 2x 36-22 chainring runs fast on straights and climbs steep hills with a lot of gearing options. XC trail riding is also fun as I love to use the granny 22t wheel.

[@PhilTaylorPhotog]

Any gains in gear selection from the 3x or 2x system are lost just by working out how to select the gear...1x has totally changed my uphill riding.

[@jamedonovan3555]

I'm a 1x convert and love it. Simplicity is the biggest benefit for me. I ride in the mountains of Utah, never had a problem w/ too large of a gap when climbing.

[@PetterIvarsson]

I agre

[@anderola]

Same here, 1x is the future

[@DefiantMongoose]

ran a 1x before and switched to a 2x mainly because of the very steep uphill climbs. 1x cant offer that added reach for me.

[@fastfiddler1625]

I just updated my Giant hard tail frame from a 3x8 (eww yes I know) to a Shimano 2x10. I love it. I almost never used the smallest ring on a 3x and this works well. I currently can only have one bike right now. I like to throw road tires on it when I'm just in town, so that was my deciding factor is I can run a larger high speed ring up front. You know, until they figure out how to make a 5 tooth rear cassette ring possible.

[@maltesephil]

is my 3x a bit old skool now?

[@SantiagoGT15]

Eternally I run one too... it makes climbs a breeze

[@misterjesus]

I also ride a 3x

[@MrSchnuetz]

Eternally old school yes, bad no :)

[@mikuramsay]

Eternally yes,but you will be able to go a lot faster as well!

[@peterhenrik]

2x

[@romangrzesk7798]

1 x is great if you want to a short chain life, as you increase flex on the chain it also equates to more friction! 2 x 10 is ok but my top choice is 3 x 9 for MTB 22-34-44 on the cranks 11 to 34 on the cassette no 1x nor 2x will have the wide gearing I enjoy with 3 x 9! I use it all on my single track and ask people how they'er liking that 1x as I pass them up the hill!) They always say "I love it" but why then are they struggling up the steep hills or spinning down hill like they are trying to get a land speed record but moving so slow!

[@ixcel83]

Roman Grzesk I run the same as you. Seems to get the job done.

[@ixcel83]

@Ray Ward It has potential too. You just have to know what you are doing. 1st chainring 1-4, 2nd chainring 3-7, 3rd chaining 6-9. Generally.

[@mr.wizeguy8995]

Do you know your 3x9 has actually only 15 gears! Rest of them are same or so small difference on gear ratio so it's basically same gear.

[@dustinnoyfba7227]

@Ray Ward so, late to the party but this excuse irks me. to reduce the "potential for cross chaining" when using the extremes, you make it COMPLETELY UNAVOIDABLE? with a 3x you can shift the front chainring to move the front of the chain in the way graham schuld pointed out. on a 1x you are STUCK with the front chain position so you are unavoidably crosschained for at least 4 out of 9 gears if using a 1x in the middle position. some dedicated 1x cranks are WORSE by using the inner position so now you are crossed in SIX gears. SIX! yeah, so much better... right.

[@tablatom]

​@@mr.wizeguy8995​not really. The advantage or 22,24,26 as the small chain ring up front on a 2x or 3x is, when you are really tired going up a long hill, like a truck hauling a heavy load, the gears want to very close in ratio. With a 22 granny gear, the low gears on a cassette like 40,36,30 etc have a very small increase in ratio, so your cadence doesn't change very much. With a 30,32,34,36 on a 1X up front, the changes are much bigger, and when you are really tired that isn't helpful. Especially when bike packing with a load. So actually, 3X9 really is 27 gears as the gaps are different on each chain ring. And thats VERY rider friendly.

[@olexiiusatiuk3137]

My full sus. bike is 2x10 and i feel shortage of gears for commuting and on road. The max speed is approximately 50 km/h (38x11 gear). My old hardtail (3x8) could do 60 km/h easily with the same paсe. So, 1x system is very bad idea for multipurpose bike.

[@bertrandbogaert771]

same for me, my 1 and only old HT was 3x9 that I changed to 2x11. I regret because I miss that faster going down to have longer momentum for the next going up during commuting on the road.

[@seaneeeg1]

ABSOLUTELY!!!!! 1x is for a VERY SPECIFIC APPLICATION!!! END IF MARKETING CAMPAIGN 😎

[@seaneeeg1]

...or...instead of : “JACK OF ALL TRADES; MASTER OF NONE”....have a Road bike and a Mt Bike!!! We spend $ on the STUPIDEST CRAP....I can’t think of a better investment than to have one of each!!!!!!! THEN YOU’LL LOVE BIKING EVEN MORE!!😀😎 JUST DO IT!!!!!!!!!

[@2l84all]

@@seaneeeg1 agree. Just for extreme terain with high angles. Otherwise 2x system is much better.

[@EarlyDawnTravels]

This is super helpful! I've been renting a 1x and love the simplicity...Looking to purchase a MTN bike though, so doing the research. Thanks guys! really enjoy your channel.

[@patricksheard1648]

Why is this video not called: 2x or not 2x

[@chamilton4]

cos it could be a 3x

[@canadianroot]

Why is this video not called XXX vs. Soft-core?

[@BoBByQc444]

i like my 2x .. realy help me on long climb .. and steep hills :-) plus . .the 1x .. they say chains get used faster .. I do have a 2 (24-36) x 9 (11-36) speeds.. not super fast .. but steady :-) and i like specialy the prices when i have to replace something in my drive train :-) Keep Riding your bike !!!

[@IanJesting]

That is the question

[@johnhanley9946]

Lol

[@pbillings808]

1x with 30t oval in the front for the climbing I do (11-42 rear). I'd never be able to avoid pedal strikes from a lower gear ratio than this provides. I never spin out going downhill, so no loss of "usable" gear range on that end. Love the simplicity!

[@IFTY_MTB]

Can we just take a moment and appreciate what a good job the gmbn editors do.

[@johnjriggsarchery2457]

I have an '85 Ross mtb that I was running as a single speed but went back to the rear derailleur with the original free wheel. I did add a chain guide but it works flawlessly. With the middle chain ring still there, I can climb without the granny gear to the point of losing traction, so it's low enough. Without the big original chain ring, it's fast enough unless I'm going down hill, so my 1x6 is very workable. I like fixies and single speeds (standing up more than you gear guys) so I am pleased.

[@lennartmeinke8861]

Sorry guys, roadie here. I was wondering about the chainkeeper on the bottom.. Wouldn't it introduce lots of friction on the chain, effectively "wasting" power?

[@Hdtjdjbszh]

Lennart Meinke not really, that part isn't under any stress and the friction added is negligible

[@James_2194]

Probably, but not enough to be an issue. I use one and they're made out of a very hard and durable plastic. Very little friction, and you certainly can't notice a difference when riding or even turning the cranks backwards by hand. They do an excellent job at tensioning the chain and stopping it from slapping around on rough terrain, though!

[@jtaraiza2480]

Lennart Meinke I see where your coming from and i thought the same thing. but the part on the chain that is getting the power to the wheel is on the top of the chainstay where the chain isn't rubbing on the device. so you don't actually feel it in the pedal stroke because the amount of force that it takes to move the rear wheel is so large that you will not notice the friction from the device and it only "wastes power" when back pedaling. hope that cleared something up

[@NallePu83]

Look at "Global Cycling Network" roadie bike channel :-D

[@lennartmeinke8861]

JT Araiza It did, thanks to all of you ;)

[@JuanPabloGallego1969]

As a beginner I am happy to have three 3x gears on the front! Looking forward to getting stronger and dropping to 2x

[@jfrtbikgkdhjbeep9974]

you might be able to lose the small chainring on your front gearing, keep the hi gearing and the 2x, lose the lowest gears .. check your set up

[@mwphotographer]

Like many weekend warriors I only have one bike for all the riding I want to cover. Cross country, twisty singletrack, trail centres and Bike Parks. That is a huge ask on one machine. Limiting what can be ridden with 1x options seems a big compromise for the limited benefits of tiny weight saving, and "simplicity" especially when we are asked to pay such high purchase prices on the 1x range. Sram's 1x12 is nearly £1000 with £300 cassettes to be replaced! The boast is this offers a 500% gear range. I put my new bike together last year as choices for 2x seemed to be getting less. (Frames not having the option for a front mech) My 2x XT drivetrain was under £400, with 28/38 chain rings and 11-42 cassette (£60 replacement) and offers 518% gear range. Although better than the best available 1x on offer, this is still not as good as my previous 3x9 set up but at least gives me the same climbing ratio, and just slightly slower on the fast stuff! I also love the fact that I can "change down" on the front when I hit a sudden climb and carry speed and momentum more easily than if I was changing down individual gears at the back. As far as the simplicity argument goes, I bet most of us have managed 3x gearing since we were teenagers, so who is finding 2x suddenly difficult to work out? For me keeping £600 in the bank for other upgrades, and choosing a more flexible system with wider range for only a 200g or so weight difference seems to be the best way to go - at least while we have a choice.....

[@michaelwilliams8781]

Went from a 3 x to a 1 x and I like the simplicity of it. Upgraded cassette from 11 - 42t to 51t as we have a lot of hills around here and I’m not getting any younger!

[@evanr5786]

I have 3x and I like it more than 2x or 1x. but if I and to choose between 2x or 1x I would choose 2x

[@MrDaniel2809]

I had a 2x10 system on my old bike and now i have a 1x12. The 2x10 system was a 26-36 crank on a 11-42 cassette. From the 20 gears, there was 6 gears you are not "allowed" to use because of chain crossing and 2 gears had the same ratio. That left only 13 gears for use. The highest and lowest ratio were 0,62 and 3,60. On the other side, the min and max on the 1x12 are 0.70 and 3,56. It's a 32t chainring with a 10-51 cassette. I thought a lot about it and went with the new 1x12 bike, so far I like it very much and I dont miss the 2x at all!

[@babyfishbreeder]

I still do like my 3x groupset

[@trevormccardlemtb1952]

I'v ridden 2x on my Camber for 6 years now and don't have any problems. My wife rides a Scott Contessa Genious 730 with 2X and loves it too.

[@Tini.F.]

44-32-22...was good, and will be my choice forever..... those suck on a real world trail...

[@bigkiv47]

Great vid on explaining guys.... Went to a 1x system (11-41 x 32 ring) after my 2x system was worn. Found it, and still find it, harder to pedal but can cope. When this system wears out I will progressively replace with an easier 1x system. Prob a 30 chainring and a 11-46 cassette will give me the granny gear I need. Just have to keep riding and stay strong to get up those damn hills but either way is still the most enjoyable sport I have ever been involved in. I do enjoy the simplicity of a 1x system and the fact that my reverb dropper actuator is now in reach rather than a mile away from my fingers. :)

[@adriamr_8]

I think that there is a winer, but it doesn't apear in the video.... The 1x12 sram EAGLE!!!

[@seaneeeg1]

adriamr 8 : 1x is VERY LIMITED TO SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS!!!! Tight, Technical, Elevated Singletrack...ANYTHING else is an absolute NO GO 🙅‍♂️ CUSTOMIZED 2x is the way to go or be! And by the way I wouldn’t recommend the SRAM EAGLE setup to anyone who isn’t independently wealthy $$$$$$$$$$$$$🙈🙄$$$$$$$$

[@cgrantwbfl]

I just converted my bike front 2x to a 1x oval chainring. I took it out for a rip for the first time today and I am very impressed.

[@klstrucker930419]

You forgot about the biggest disadvantage of 1x11 (not to mention 1x12): the price. It's ridiculous.

[@williamvangorden44]

klstrucker930419 yeah and 1 by 11 are a bit more expensive then the 2 or the 3 ridiculous.

[@majic452]

Mountain bikes are all about spending money

[@laurynasjagelo5075]

I made a 1x conversion on gravel bike. Order a custom chainring, new cassette and a chain. 1x10 is also cheaper, and can be hacked; the bigger gaps in high gears dont matter as much as on the low gears. How much was it? 35 eur NW ring, 15eur chain and 40 eur new cassette. You can also spend 2x the mentioned price for 100g less weight :D p.s. you dont have to spend for SRAM eagle to have a proper 1x setup.

[@BogdanArd85]

I still have and use my 15kg, 2015, 3x8 rim brake MTB that I kind off abused. I went everywhere with it and kept the pace with many fancier bikes. I even raced with it and had decent results. Now I also have a 2x10 and I can feel the difference when climbing witch became easier but I lost some of the flat/road top speed. Overall, I think the bike matters less if you can adapt to the speed and skills of your riding group. If you're having fun together with your friends nothing else really matters.

[@avyudayakhanal7203]

Please suggest me, whic will be better choice for a hilly rigion? 1X 2X or 3X in front?

[@calumbarr7797]

Just upgraded to 1x10 from 2x9 a few days ago, going to have to say I prefer the simplicity of 1x

[@seaneeeg1]

Calum Barr that’s exactly what I’m about to pull the trigger on!! Losing my beloved 2x9 for a 1x11!!!!!! How are the climbs so far? I mean I’ve always used a 32T ring in the front as my small ring so climbing for me is always a little bit more if a burn 🔥 so I’m not worried about the climbing aspect of the 1x ...I can’t wait to give it a go!!!!!

[@Step_bro951]

I had a 3x on my trek x-caliber 7 and my chain would not stay on for my life so finally got a shimano Deore XT(1×) with a chain guide and it's been amazing! it's a 29er hardtsil that I ride at the snow summit downhill park and no problems!

[@jobertconcepcion694]

I still ride my 3by, but using a 42 casette, just making sure not to switch to the big ring and big 42. Im gonna buy a new bike ant its gonna be a 2 by !!!

[@seaneeeg1]

Jobert Concepcion YUP!!! Another great call!!!!!! DO IT!!!!

[@grantkeene5034]

I converted my 3x bike to a 1x. Love it. faster start on downhill runs. The only thing i did was buy a narrow wide chainring. easy as that.

[@tobiasstamenkovic9628]

3by all the way... You must respect how the marketing dudes convinced so many people about "widening the gap between gears and taking away at the top and bottom end of your gear ratio" to actually be a "good thing". Seriously, "simplicity" on a mechanism with a whooping THREE setting? Wow... Maybe you wanna ditch a bunch of buttons on your Playstation Controller too? It totally adds to simplicity, all those extra buttons are just too darn confusing... The real funny thing is, we HAD 2by drivetrains back in the 80s, and before that we allso had 1by. Did it suck back then? MASSIVELY! Genius move to go back to something that sucked back then and still does...

[@leftaroundabout]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but in the 80s, the sprockets didn't sit on a cassette but were always screwed on the wheel with the axle passing through unsupported in the middle, right? (Like they still are on cheap BSOs.) These systems suck mosly because even with only six sprockets, the axle will break after a couple of hard hits. Only robust modern cassettes have made wide ratios on the back possible. Does that mean 2x and 3x systems are obsolete? I don't think so, but at least they aren't essential anymore in the same way they were in the 80s and 90s.

[@radrcer]

Agree, just like 27.5 is a gimmick to discontinue 26 so eventually you must buy a 27.5 or 29.

[@gnawershreth]

Considering you have way more gears these days from a 1x than we used to back in the day, I do think it's a bit dishonest to make it sound *that* simple. When 3x became a thing you'd often only have 6 at the back, so it'd result in 18 gears total. I used to ride a 3x MTB with 18 gears way back. These days you can have 11 or 12 at the back so you get more gears with a 2x today than when 3x came out and made a big difference. If you already have a good 3x I see no reason to swap it out unless you just don't like it, but I wouldn't go searching for 3x today unless I was going to use the bike for something really fucking special and might want a really big or really small ring at the front. Maybe you like to mix in some serious road riding and then a "road ring" might be worth it I suppose. But if you're not doing anything too special but just a bit of everything I think a 2x should be plenty today considering how many gears they have now. I do agree on the 1x though to be honest, that does indeed seem to be a marketing thing and nothing else. I mean sure, if you only ever do DH and always take a shuttle or a lift to the top, then I guess you barely need gears at all but for all round riding up, down, flats, maybe some gravel roads, maybe even ride *to* the track on tarmac etc. I just don't see the point of 1x. You *are* missing out on gears no matter how much money is spent on marketing after all. Either you're missing low gears (climbing etc), high gear (for roads and stuff), or you'll have huge gaps between the different gears, there's just no way around that. If you're just a bike park type of guy or only really ride up and then just roll back down, that may not be an issue for you but it will limit you in what you can effectively do with a bike. If I was looking for a dedicated DH bike I might go for 1x because why not? But if I was looking for a XC bike or just a "Let's try out a new track again today!" bike, I think 2x is just more capable.. Or at least less restrictive. What's weird is that the 1x is sold as some "top of the line" type of thing now, it's simpler and saves the cost of an extra ring and the entire front derailleur, 1x should be way *cheaper*, not seen as some "premium option". lol It's ridiculous. The companies are saving costs and charging more for it.

[@williamlouie479]

I am of the mind of going to 3X10 as this would give a really good range or transport with fully loaded panniers for both front and rear racks as well as hauling a bike trailer. Please text me your feelings & knowledge

[@uthaug]

1x on both my bikes. The trails I ride are relatively flat, so I rarely run out of gears.

[@christianamante2535]

2:12 chain slap!

[@Man0fMeans]

I run a HT 3x8 system and recently swapped my cassette out for 11-40T on the back end. The additional chain length needed eliminated my ability to use the largest front cog so I'm effectively running a 2x8 now. The unused chainring is now my bash guard and I don't miss it as it was rarely used.

[@v1d300]

2x seems like a very reasonable system as it gives you the adequate gear ratios as and when required. I am on 3x and feel its excessive at times.

[@patthewoodboy]

I was bought up on a single speed , then a 3 speed hub gear , eventually going 2 x 5 etc etc , did mountain biking using 3 x 8 , then 3 x 9 , then 3 x 10 ..... now running 1 x 11 .. I dont race anymore , just do trails around my home and in the chilterns and its fine.

[@872463051]

I'm surprised poor chain lines on 1x wasn't mentioned in the video.

[@YeetxBoi]

87246305I they always cut alot of disadvantages from what the prefer, they tend to be very biased on this channel and I watch alot of their content but simply take it with a grain of salt, you should too

[@robertwilke1208]

No kidding. When I'm climbing on my XC bike in the small chainring, the chain is so straight and quiet it's nice. 1x is kind of like a religion so they have to ignore a lot of fact.

[@MrStokstad]

1x10 has the most narrow cassette = less chain rubbing. For a cheap/lightweight/simple solution use a 10x cassette sold from one who has changed to NX system. For riding style you can adjust the botttom bracket so the chainring has less rubbing on the higher or lower gears.

[@Gumson99]

1x FTW, I run it now even on my CX bike, there is just no need for the front mech anymore with wide range cassettes, but if you still think that you need 2x... just ride more and get stronger legs, and BTW Scott MTB is not road bike so the gear jumps don't have to be smooth like butter

[@Didaw]

I run a rohloff speed hub - which I guess is a 14speed fixy.

[@jonowee]

I do wish there were SRAM-style triggers for Rohloffs, even though I started on and prefer Gripshifters over Shimano triggers. I've only done a lap on someone else's bike, silent and indestructible transmission.

[@bob4q]

I ride a 2x on my 2013 Rocky Mountain. Just replaced the drive train and it works great. The new bikes here in SoCal all seem to come in the 1x though.

[@alexbraun2243]

Interesting but these reviews are always reviewed by young fit guys. I'd like the opinion of a middle aged overweight guy who is physically active but not fit fit...so how does he gauge the 1x or 2x when facing a climb...that's when I suffer and not when free wheeling downhill on a trail. I would also be keen to know what is the pedalling speed on the highest gear. I know that after 26km/h my middle ring on the lowest cog is useless...so I shift to the bigger plate.

[@todicamer]

in my 3x I can move to 30 kmh in the lowest cog, maybe you need to train your cadence, after that you can move to 2x Easy.

[@seaneeeg1]

Yup!!! My advice is CUSTOMIZED 2x the 3x in the Mt Bike world is just an OVERKILL...IMHO!!!

[@billwelch9431]

2x

[@Icehso140]

I have both. When I get into an uphill problem with a sudden change in increased angle I know I can dump my front spocket and gain 2 to 2.5 gears without stressing the drive train. I just got my 1x12 so I'll have a better idea in a while. Thanks for the video.

[@capivaraverde]

I always enjoy watching your videos but I agree with @adriamr 8. Discussing 1x vs 2x without considering the advance Sram has made in the past years seems biased. Sram Eagle has revolutionized the 1x system. A simple exercise is to compare any 2x and even 3x drive train gear ratio to the new Sram system. As far as the gear big gaps mentioned in the video, the Sram Eagle system also reduced significantly the issue. Back to Shimano 11 speed cassette 1x drive train: any MTB forum discussion states the gaps in the Shimano 11-46 cassete is far from ideal. As a matter of fact, the SunRace 11-Speed Cassette 11-46T CSMX8 minimizes the issue. For those into details, just compare the gaps between Sunrace 11-46 and the Shimano 11-46: Sunrace CSMX8 11-13-15-18-21-24-28-32-36-40-46T. Shimano XT 11-13-15-17-19-21-24-28-32-37-46T. Finally, Sram Eagle cassette: 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28, 32, 36, 42, 50.

[@eolle43]

I have run a SRAM 1x11 and currently run an Eagle on my trail bike I have extensively used and just converted away from 2x on my last MTB . I currently only run 1 x 's out of knowing my needs on the local trails. Your experiences may differ. To say the Eagle is a "game changer" is a overstatement. Especially on range alone. While it may have a larger range than current 1x it does not have the ease to rapidly gear up/down of a 2x. What do I mean by rapid gear up/down? For example on a hill climb followed by a quick fast down hill where I need to get to a beast of a gear. I have to click the sifter 11 time on an Eagle with 0.1 sec/shift and a 99.9% accuracy. Compare that to a 2x system to get the same gear from the climb is a one click on a front and four on the back (two independent systems) with an average of .15 for the front and 0.1 for the back. Faster and due to fewer clicks can be safer (*Chain keeper a must in chunder). The reverse is also accurate. When trying to go up hill after spinning out a 34x10 on the Eagle if you don't drop 8 gears and lightly spin it can be a PITA gear grind fest or a total fail. Whereas on the 2x you can just drop to the little one up front and grunt it out. Little things. Its all good but...not perfect. I also understand GMBN grouping all 1x's together because they all are basically the same. Eagle's range is impressive (I Love the bail out gear) but a 46t is very close. I only use 1x because I don't need the range and don't care about speed. However, the Eagle drivetrain is not a silver bullet. An incremental step forward...yes. IMO shifting is vastly improved over the SRAM 11 spd I but still not a perfect replacement for a 2x.

[@CanIHasThisName]

Eagle is out of the equation for vast majority of the market because of the price. Buying cost isn't even an issue, it's the maintenance cost that drives me nuts. Doing over 1000km a month on that setup is just burning money. Whoever buys that has either plenty of cash to throw around, or is a weekend rider.

[@rogerneilson815]

You can do a partial donation of your liver these days to afford Eagle group set. Some shops even do XX1 if you donate enough

[@eolle43]

Off subject but you are totally right. I do have a job and help run a non-profit. I would even suggest you come by my local trails next weekend and try to keep up with me :) But id doesn't' sound like you have the travel cash! And not to point out the obvious. You also don't need to upgrade the entire drivetrain. When you wear out the rear mech...and if you are trail riding you will!. In my bikes SRAM 11 speeds will start to show slop in the pivots around 2500 mile if you are really riding like you stole it. At that point, usually the cassette will look like crap and the front cogs will need to be replaced. At this point I decided for 1x12. Your right SRAM has shitty durability if you don't maintain the chain. I've learned this one the hard way. But a simple chain cleaner and new chain every-other month have helped me from breaking cassettes. You ever snap a cassette from a stretched chain? Not cool when you do it and have to replace the entire drive train.

[@panolog]

Yeah mate! Ferraris are the best!

[@michaelpapillobass]

A lot of people take the chairlift up these days. Back in the 90s we used to ride UP the hills. It was called “climbing” and it was cool. Try it.

[@jpgpearson]

3x

[@CorvetteCoonass]

When I was a teen, I often rode a 3x system. These days I have been using a 1x system, but I switched over to a 2x system as I like having more gearing options; I'm about to install a front derailleur for my 2x crank. I really don't pedal downhill as I like to save my legs so the 3rd larger gear would just be waste for me.

[@TheProjectX3]

1x. When the course is like Tetris, no time to shift FD

[@jaimealejandrocifuentesrui9393]

I think I will go with the 2X, as I am not focused on the weight and love the wide range of speeds to hit the tarmac occasionally.

[@Donpiphans]

2x. Because when it goes straight out, it's faster.

[@FadilAziz71]

I have been using 3x crank and now use 11 - 50 T cassette. Overkill? Maybe, maybe not. I can go anywhere. Love it.

[@willbeirne7587]

my mountain bike is a 1x1, single-speed.

[@James-yy4vl]

Will Beirne it’s not a mountain bike then that actually lets you ride on mountains

[@ちょこころね-i1k]

I can imagine ur muscular legs.

[@seaneeeg1]

😳🙄🙈 You nailed it James! You live in Idaho Will? Or just a “FLAT EARTHER” conspiracist?🤭

[@marklittledale8429]

I’ve always preferred to use 3x to be honest. I do a lot of Tarmac and gravel and find that with the 3x I can build up my cadence. When I’m on flat ground and in 27 gear, you can absolutely fly without doing much peddling. My thoughts are that if I drop to 2x11 or 2x10 I’m going to lose that cadence and have to put in more effort peddling.

[@bikebudha1]

3x is still king. (I live near real mountains...)

[@musaran2]

This. •I absolutely need the much wider range to get a super low speed for those super steep (and long !) climbs without having to mash the pedals (bad for knees and everything). •Getting that low speed from the chainring gives from freedom of choice on the cassette and derailleur. •The smaller, smoother steps is a much welcome comfort. •The "3×N = 3N" speeds is a lie and not in itself relevant, I prefer to think that +1 chainring is worth +2~3 sprockets. A 3×8 would then be 12~14 speeds.

[@mr.wizeguy8995]

@@musaran2 3x9 has actually only 15 gears because rest gear ratio is same/almost same to those others. So not a huge difference for 1x11 or even less for 1x12.

[@sebastienvttiste7233]

@@mr.wizeguy8995 True, but with 3X transmission slowest speed is about 5km/h, fastest speed is about 50km/h. Good luck finding equivalent range in 1X transmission.

[@mr.wizeguy8995]

@@sebastienvttiste7233 Can you post video where you cycle 50 km/h with MTB on dirt track, needle track or trail no down hill. So still 1x11 is or 1x12 is more than enough if you really are driving off roads.

[@amc_sounds]

I'm pretty sure no-one else has mentioned it yet, but 3 works perfectly. #bikeindustryisbroken #hypebollocks #thenextbigthing #thegrassisnevergreener #howsthatchainlineworkingoutforyou

[@lukegehringer4834]

i love my 3x and I have a 2020 marlin 4. It works really well for MTB but is also really fun for the road.

[@hudanfuad5255]

i prefer 2x my left and right legs

[@pitompung_kalabasa]

I have a 3x, although I mostly use the 2nd and 3rd. I think it's more practical because I do long rides going to trails, makes my bike pretty versatile.

[@mrd7996]

so why do less expensive bikes, say $800 all the way down to big box store bikes use 3x chain rings. it would seem a more expensive option than 2x chain rings. Is the cassette the real expensive component that dictates why the less expensive bikes use a 3x chain ring? great video btw.

[@CanIHasThisName]

Pretty much. For most people, having a 1x means having a wide range cassette, preferably an 11 speed. And it's not just about the components, but also replacing chain and cassette. Someone who buys a cheap bike doesn't expect to be dishing out mad cash for those.

[@gmbn]

Unfortunately 11 and 12 speed drive trains are expensive!

[@WildOutdoorLiving]

It's older tech as well, so less R&D needs to be factored into the cost. In addition to that, since 3x systems are generally sold on less expensive bike they are manufactured with cheaper materials and with less labor intensive manufacturing processes. By using a 3x chainset they can then as others have said use less expensive 7,8 and 9 speed cassettes, chains, shifters and derailleurs.

[@bensonc627]

They can list the bike have 21 gears, even more then our 2x10 cost 5 times more :)