Ok, I put the new cassette on and installed the chain. No muss, no fuss. The old chain was probably 2-3 links too long because I replaced the 53/39 with a 50/34 at some point and never shortened the chain. I used Calvin's method above and it fit perfectly without having to change the length. Also, the 29 cog doesn't have any problem with the short cage. So now I have a 34-29 low gear which should be enough for just about any riding I do. I hardly ever went in the 34-26 in the past anyway but I'm getting old (65). Also, this cassette gives me all the 21-23-26 that I ride in with the big ring but now one cog lower in position so I will cross chain less. I'll avoid the 50-29 combo whereas I would use the 50-26 combo in the past.
There was no cursing in this install, which is rare.
Now to take it for a ride.
wow. Much quieter and better shifting. And while I didn’t need the lowest gear for the ride I can tell it’ll be a nice addition for when I do.
Last edited by zacster; 09-15-20 at 03:33 PM.