2008 saw the launch of e.13’s range of guide rings in odd sizes, aimed squarely at the singlevspeed and racer market. But do the odd sized chain rings really make the difference and are they as ‘groundbreaking’ as e.13 seem to claim?
Here are my thoughts,
Initial thoughts of the chain ring were nothing short of spectacular, with a high quality finish that e.13 are now renowned for. The odd sized guide rings share the same lightweight characteristics as their standard e-13 guide ring counterparts and sport subtle laser etched e.13 logos against their ‘champagne’ colored body. My 37t guide ring weighed in at just under
48g, not bad at all!
Upon fitting the ring, I did however find the compromise made to achieve such a low weight, with a tooth breaking off before the chain ring had even been ridden. However I shall put that down to a manufacturing fault perhaps. Now on my second guide ring, I can’t fault it for its racing characteristics; it really does tick all the boxes. It's lightweight, 7075 T-6 aluminum construction means that it fits perfectly into a lightweight race build, whether it be for 4X or Downhill. It boasts a sleek and elegant look without screaming for attention and best of all gives a choice of chain ring size and gearing ratio that was previously either too expensive or heavy through other brands, but is now available in legendary e.13 quality. This now means you can achieve that perfect stomping or gating gear easily without spending excessive amounts.
“All right, all right, but does 1 tooth really make all that much difference?” Yes, I believe it does. It allows you to have the choice to pick the exact gear you want without pondering between a 36 and a 38 for example. Many people on the race scene also compliment the odd sized chain rings on how they enable riders to gate perfectly, ultimately leading to a better race run, and if that’s the difference 1st can make, then it certainly is a worthwhile change in my opinion.
Overall, another great product from e.13 that gives the consumer more choice, which is always a good thing. I will do a follow up review to report back on the long term durability of the chain ring over the coming months.
Odd-sized guide rings are available in 33t, 35t, 37t, and 39t options. All e.thirteen chain retention systems are compatible with the odd-sized guide rings. The rings come in at $34.50 to $36.25 and $29.99 in the UK and are available exclusively in the UK through
SilverFish For more information on the chain rings and other e.13 components, please visit
e.13.
Stay clipped,
Sepi Arani
Not dirtjumpers/etc
They are light.
This weight saving comes with a compromise......
They are great chainrings and the overall quality control is good!