Salida gearing?
So, what's the story? I'm thinking I want to run an 11-23 so I can hang on the descent, but don't want to be undergeared for the climb up. Is the climb steep enough that I should run a 12-25 and just assume the descent's steep enough that I'd be spun out in my 11 anyway? I used a 12-25 at Dead Dog but used the 21 and a little bit of the 23 for the steeper sections. How's Salida compare? I've got an 11-26 SRAM, but the 26 is too big for moderate climbs and the next gear down is the 23.

Salida has some steeper sections but nothing is as long as DD. I think the short sections are easy enough to power over. With that said, what is this 2005? Why are you choosing between the 11 and the 25? Go down to the Golden Bike shop and get yourself an 11-25 sram Red. It's worth every cent.

Chances of getting dropped on the descent as opposed to the ascent are not very good. If I had to choose between an 11 and a 25 I'd personally take the 25. Those steep sections start to hurt after a few times around.

Ask Chad, he will tell you from personal experience what you should do.

The 23T is not enough. The first kick on the climb warrants something larger, particularly after several laps. Go with your Sram 11-26.

Thanks - I'll go with the 11-26. And, +1 for Golden Bike Shop. Just had them install a new Chris King and the service was awesome!

Is it possible to swap the 12 for an 11 from a different cassette or would this cause shifting problems? I mean come on, they're individual cogs anyways.

I have found the best thing to do is drop the 16 tooth and go to the 15 on down to the 11. Remember to put on the 11 tooth lockring..the standard that comes with shimano will cause the chain to ride on the lockring because it is too big for the 11 tooth.