Any strong opinioins / thoughts on the size of a front ring for a 1 x 10 setup? I've got an 11 - 36 cassette coming for the back and thought a 32 or 34 would be appropriate for the front, but would really apreciate any insightful advice anyone has to offer!

I have a 9speed 34-11 with a 34 up front (I think) it is a standard middle ring size, I would say that a 36-11 would be good with a 34 as well.

But I read recently that people have been putting a 34 up front for winter and a 36 in summer as the trails are easier going.

But really it it down to you so start with a 34 and see how it go's. You might need to shorten your chain a little as it needs to be loner to get up on the bing ring. But again trail and error.

I find the only time I run out with the 11 and 34 is on the road if we link trails or ride to trails.

My Bionicon came as a 3x10 which I changed to a 1x10 34 standard middle ring and 11-36 rear cassette and find it fine for all the trails that I have riddenso far on it. I agree with Lee run the standard size middle ring and see if you want to go to a 36 or even a 38, it really is only an issues when you ride on the road

Thanks for the advice guys. Based on what you've said I think I'll go for a 34 and just see how I get on. The only time my trail bike ever sees the roads is being ridden up Park street from work to AC, so loosing a couple of teeth up front should not be a problem!

I am taking the opportunity to trial one of them there clutch rear mechs - does this mean I should be able to get away with a top only chain guide...?

I have a bottom bracket mount top guide you can have and see how you get on, it's a Superstar one

Cheers buddy, that'd be really helpful!