By this point, we all know the benefits (and drawbacks) of one-by drivetrains: The light weight! (The tall gearing!) The reduced noise! (The giant cadence steps!)
While Commencal isn’t going to change anyone’s mind with their latest value-oriented offering, for anyone on the fence (or looking to simplify a child’s or partner’s ride), the new €99 (£71 and change) Ride Alpha 1×10 kit looks like a decent turnkey option. The Fouriers-made bundle consists of a range-widening 42t cog, one of several sizes of chain-hugging narrow/wide chainrings, a CrMo 16t cog to smooth cadence jumps when stock 15t & 17t cogs are removed, and an extra-long B-screw to allow Shimano derailleurs to clear the whole thing.
Granted, the 42t’s shift cogs look to have been located based on aesthetics and the extra-long B-screw will mean less cassette engagement and faster chain wear than pricier solutions- but they should be fine for testing the single-ring waters. The Ride Alpha 1×10 kit is compatible with Shimano cassettes (presumably XT/XTR- or lower groups with a bit of work).
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Honestly?
” for anyone on the fence (or looking to simplify a child’s or partner’s ride),”
The her indoors line, come on we don’t keep partners as pets