Need some help sorting things here. I’ve run both in races. I’d ride a 11-28 with the 55/42 or a 11-32 with the 54T (can get a 36T if I wanted)

What’s the better solution? For steady riding I’m essentially same chain line (forget off top of head but think it’s the 17t I’d use on either). Maybe even better chain line on 54t as it’s offset to inside.

I do lose the 16t on the 32. As the next step down is 15t. I didn’t mind in Augusta not having it. I’m happy over a wide range of cadences.

I’d run the 42/28 on a course like Placid. I lose one top gear if I run the 32 and keep same ratio if I run the 36. I’d mostly run the 32 tho.

So my question - how much climbing do I need to have to have the chain line loss offset the aero gain in steady state riding?

I think Josh with Silca said 2x is always better but I think that’s based around chain line losses - can anyone confirm? Since I’m in same 17t in both cases, I don’t have that issue. True statement?

I still lose some efficiency from the NW profile, correct?

Chain length stays same for both. RD stays the same. It’s actually lighter with the 1x and 32t cassette. 1x right has aero cover.

I want to run 1x as I like the look but not convinced it’s NET faster - or, if it is, when is it not? Riding the 54/36(or32) up a mountain would be worse chainline than the 42/28.

Josh - if you read this, I’ll do whatever you say without questioning it...