Cheers Koval! This is a 1x9 with a regular, non clutch derailier. I have had the narrow wide chain ring on for about 6 months without a chain guide. This set up is not perfect but its pretty damn good and have have dropped the chain only a hand full of times. I will probably put a chain guide on eventually but not neccessarily a clutch derailier and I am happy with 1x9.. no problems climbing steeps with this set up.

 oh bugger! me blind there is no argument that for most of us 1x9 still works. the only reason for me to go with 1x10 would be upgrading to a newer clutch mech and loosing the cage... but I keep thinking the practicality of this setup. Can not really afford loosing a chain on a racing bike.

 true, racing bike would benefit from some sort of chain guide.. but for trail rides the narrow wide chain rings work really well with a regular derailier and no guide!

 a clutch 10 speed mech works for 9 speed....

 Good point baggy. I have some interesting drivetrain ensembles on the kids bikes.. all work to varying degrees of success!

 ha ha haa! i think a sram trigger (9 speed) with a zee rear mech (10 speed) works fine, if you want shimano shifter and rear mech then there's a little mod needed...it's all good fun! :tup;

 The endless parts conundrum.. I wrestle with it frequently! Luckily there is healthy 2nd hand market here as there are many riders who buy new and upgrade yearly. I had the blue pig and the taro both built up for sometime.. I chose to keep the taro and strip the parts off the blue pig to build up Ashley's bike. Looking forward to spending more time on the Taro thru the wet season.

 Thats awesome!
The reason I want to build my HT again is for the same purpose.
Just get on and ride!

Did you ever come up with a solution for the wheel wobble you were feeling on the Taro?

 Cheers mate!

 The big wheels are fun.. takes more input to get her going on the trails but she can boogie!

 Thanks man.. How have you been?

 Good brother, good Hope all is well with you and your family

 Lots of rain here thru the summer but good for trail building.. enjoy the Canadian spring when it comes!