Whyte Montpellier..........question re' gearing

[Dave7]

I am looking at bikes again as 'sale time' (hopefully) gets closer.
Looking at the Whyte Montpellier I just noticed that it only has one front ring and the cassette is 11-42 (didn't notice that previously).
I know it's not a "road bike" but most (maybe all) hybrids have a least a double. Their web lists it as "fast commute".
So my questions are..............
1) why ??
2) Is it not a disadvantage to the user ?

Anyone actually got one ? If so what kind of cycling is it best for ?

 

[Deleted member 23692]

1, Simpler setup,
2, No

More gen here - https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/single-chain-ring-tiny.200115/#post-4267504

 

[midlife]

Avoids this..........

https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/front-mech-problems.203446/

Shaun

 

[Smokin Joe]

If you want a large spread of ratios it's ok, but the jump between shifts will be very noticeable. It isn't a setup for anyone who likes to keep a brisk, steady pace.

 

[Dave7]

1, Simpler setup,
2, No

More gen here - https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/single-chain-ring-tiny.200115/#post-4267504

Thanks for that. Most comments are complimentary but one is as follows..............
11-42 cassette. I've got a great spread of gears for off road use, but it lacks a bit when on tarmac
Which suggests there is some disadvantage.

 

[Dave7]

Avoids this..........

https://www.cyclechat.net/threads/front-mech-problems.203446/

Shaun

That is true. Never thought of it before as I didn't know they existed on higher end modern bikes.

 

[Dave7]

If you want a large spread of ratios it's ok, but the jump between shifts will be very noticeable. It isn't a setup for anyone who likes to keep a brisk, steady pace.

I can relate to that. I have 2 x 11-32 and for the 1st few weeks noticed a fairly big jump somewhere near the middle

 

[Deleted member 23692]

11-42 cassette. I've got a great spread of gears for off road use, but it lacks a bit when on tarmac

That was me .

That comment specifically refers to my MTB setup, where I've chosen a chain ring (32t) which gives [roughly] the same lowest gear ratio as I has on the previous triple setup. As such it lowers to top end gearing.

But if I stick my 38t chaining on, it's far more road-use friendly, as I don't need the silly low gear that I would off road.

It's not a disadvantage, just a compromise