Howard Darr's excellent solution: I have a vintage bike and wanted lower gears while keeping a classic look. I utilized a TA crank with 49 x 33 chainrings paired with a 15 16 18 19 21 24 rear. It sports a Huret front and a Campagnolo rear. Does really nice. ++++++++++++++++++++++++ The alternative I stumbled into but really like is the old 86 mm BCD style. I think it originated as the Stronglight 99, but is commonly seen in an SR clone, too. Goes down to 28 tooth, sturdy - although my sense is that the SR chainrings are a bit soft for serious distance use.
Now, I'm not sure about crank tapers and such, but the chainrings all seem to match up pretty well. One little warning if you're planning a tour: early Stronglight 99 used the unique 23.35 mm Stronglight puller. Later ones and the SRs use the "standard" 22 mm. Would want to wind up on tour with one arm with each, eh?
I used this combination as a triple for L'Eroica, as it was an easy conversion on the bike I wanted to take. Also have it on a pair of Bike Friday folders, partly because the "track" or "Q" is narrower, which is an advantage for packing into the case.
The reminder came at Westminster, where I picked up a couple of miscellaneous 86 mm. chainrings very inexpensively. After I paid, the chap asked what they fitted. :-)
As always, your mileage may vary.
harvey sachs
mcLean va