Yes, it is extremely difficult to get a chain to run smoothly on the small/small or large/large combos, even on a 5 speed rear. This is especially true on racing bikes with short chainstays, since there is just not enough chain length to allow the chain to make a more moderate angle from chainwheel to cog. Small/small is worse, as the chain also must flex more in the vertical plane to wrap around the small rear cog. "Ten-speeds" were really eight-speeds at best.
Regards,
Jerry Moos
Roadgiant@cs.com wrote:
> Egads!
> Didn't realize that there was a 'no-no' set-up. The skip is indeed on
> the 42/13 combo. Measuring the chainstay length tomorrow. Also will check for
> stiff links. Thanks to everyone for the helpful advice.
> Post Paddy Day ride tomorrow!
>
> Scott "skip to the loo" Smith