Classic Folk:
On the subject of gearing during the classic era, there is a smattering of specific information in Bernard Hinault's book, which is entitled something like 'Bike Racing Techniques & Training'. The following is a brief summary.
COPPI: it is noted that he would do 45 kph on the flat (~28mph) using a 51X15 gear at 106 rpm, contrasted to a modern rider - which one assumes would be Hinault - using a 53X12 gear at 81 rpm. It is also noted that he typically rode on 32mm sew-ups.
MERCKX: for an easy course, 53/44 & 13/14/15/16/17/19 For a hilly course, 53/44 & 13/14/15/17/19/21 For a mountain stage, 53/42 & 13/15/17/19/21/23 Other comments: "Eddy had a special fondness for climbing in a 44 chainring" "Most pros would only resort to a 24, 25, or 26 on a very steep grade"
USUAL TIME TRIAL GEARING: 53/42 & 12/13/14/15/16/17
VAN IMPE TIME TRIAL GEARING: 53/47 & 13/14/15/19/20/21 (the 3 small cogs go with the 53; the large 3 go with the 47)
HINAULT: as an intermediate, high gear was 50X16 As a junior, 51X14 or 13 As a pro, 53X14,13, or 12 In the mountains, a 22 cog when young A 24 cog later in career (to stay more in the saddle) Winter training: 51 ring & 16 or 15 cog.
CRANK LENGTH: Merckx: inseam 91 cm, usually used 175mm, but 177.5 for mountains and TTs Jean Robic: 72 cm 170 Jacques Anquetil 84 cm 175, 180 for TT Marc Madiot 86 cm 180 all the time! Bernard Hinault 83 cm 172.5 always
Brad Stockwell
(6061 bike miles so far this year with two weekends to go)
Palo Alto