Correct. It depends on how flat the terrain is and how often one's chain is in big cogs. I have heard from strong guys too many times that they are hardly ever in the small ring (wish I could say that myself). There are also several options typically available for surface treatment. Some are better than others (but more $$$). There will be a bit more power loss when chain is deeply crossed. It is a bit more severe than SRAM's 1X11 mountain bike system because the chainstay is a bit longer and ring a bit smaller on a mountain bike.

That said, the aero/cost/simplicity temptation of single ring is significant, especially when you are a stronger rider targeting a flatter race course. Nothing is ever perfect and it's all about trade-offs. Someone could just find this useful.

A well lubed new chain and a bit of break-in period make a difference too.

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