This is a pretty simple question and is going to make me sound pretty dumb… but here goes.
#3 is the recommended starting point for the q-rings.
My question off of this base is. If I’m riding a fairly steep seat angle (i.e. around 80) would moving the setting to 4 or 5 add to your power output? Or is it the opposite (1,2)… I have myself all confused.
i think this will help you.
http://forum.slowtwitch.com/gforum.cgi?post=1359539;search_string=q%20rings;#1359539
18 deg. is the recommended ‘starting point’, but 23 deg. tends to work better for TT and more forward position riding.
many triathletes have had the best luck with 23 deg. on both rings (which is position 4 on the big ring, and position 3 on the small ring (if that is confusing, be sure to read the link above) …
I’m curious to see what people write. I have q-rings on my tri-bike and really like the feel. I like them so much that I got some for my road bike as well…they definitely do not feel so good. It’s probably “user error” but it seems like climbing in my small ring is now more difficult. So where do you have yours set?
What we generally suggest is:
For road bikes, use the default setting as recommended in the user guide (OCP #3)
For forward positioned TT and tri bikes, start with the outer Q-Ring OCP #3 setting for two weeks, then try the #4 setting and see how it feels. Each rider has different needs and preferences … one of the best features of Q-Rings is that the OCP system (multi-position bolt holes) are designed to suit your individual riding habits, body geometry, strength and position on the bike.