Originally Posted by
mstateglfr
Measure from pulley center to pulley center on the arm. If it's about 3.5", then it's a GS RD.
No harm in trying the SS RD with a 32t cassette, if that's what you have. Move the B screw and give it a try.
As for the old cassette removal, it takes 30seconds. The labor is basically non existent. Dont think twice about mounting/removal of a cassette. It's a simple tool and almost no effort.
A 50/34 compact r8000 costs +/-$215. A 34/30 bailout is the same ratio as a 36/32 bailout. Yes it's more $, but it keeps the same jumps in the cassette you have and you will presumably use the 11 and/or 12 tooth cogs more often. I assume you dont spin out on 52/11 right now.
Just something to consider.
I have the Cannondale OPI Spidering, which I think costs $250 to replace vs.$100 for the cassette and chain. If I were building from scratch, I'd opt for the compact chainrings. But the gaps in the 11-32 are nearly the same as the 11-30. Everythng from the 5th smallest cog on up, has one more tooth compared to the 11-32.