Originally Posted by
SalsaShark
The Shimano Deore 9-speed trekking crankset was replaced with 10-speed, and the current 9-speed crankset is found in the Alivio series.
The current trekking-triple Alivio crank is 9-speed, with Hollowtech II spindle and outboard BB compatibility. Stock rings are 48/36/26 with chainguard.
I would replace your crankset with this Alivio trekking crank and BB, and you could swap the inner ring with a smaller size if desired. Get a 9-speed 11-32 cassette or similar, and a set of 9-speed bar end shifters, and you will be all set. Very versatile and durable touring setup.
While a good idea, the Alivio is a poor choice. The rings are riveted in place which means they can’t be replaced. Nashbar currently has a
Deore M6000 for about $95 without a bottom bracket (external ones are fairly cheap). It’s problematic because it has a 40/30/22 chainring set on it. A
48 tooth outer ring will cost around $30 to $40 to replace and a
36 tooth inner ring will cost $15 to $20.