Bike Forums - View Single Post - Options for better hillclimbing with the GRX 400 groupset

03-30-21, 07:38 PM

#22

dwmckee

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Quote:

Originally Posted by Badger6

Better than fair. Max low sprocket size (as spec'd by Shimano) is 36T. You will see where folks might get an additional 2T out their RD, but let's be realistic, at that point you're running the RD beyond spec and performance MAY be affected, as in won't shift reliably onto the low (biggest) sprocket.

IMO, without scrapping the existing drivetrain and converting to 11 speed (or even 12 speed) and 1x up front, the best option for the OP is to get the 11-36 cassette. It does increase the total gear range a modest 28% from 474% to 502% and it will drop the ratio from 0.882 to 0.833, again modest providing an addition 1.3 gear inches, but it is something.

I am pretty sure Shimano's spec for the 400 rear derailleur is 34 teeth max capacity and a stretch to 36 is almost always no problem. Some get away with 40 or 42, maybe with a hanger extender, but that gets sketchy..

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