Swapping a 52T for a 44T on a double set up?
08-26-05, 01:07 AM
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Swapping a 52T for a 44T on a double set up?
My cross rig runs a double chainring w/ 52:38. I want to have more of a "compact" set up since I never use a 52 in a race. Can I simply swap out for 44 or 46T or do I also need to shorten the chain? If I shorten it, by how much?
08-26-05, 04:11 AM
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I've never done it but I don't see why it wouldn't work. You could shorten your chain if you want to but, if you have enough chain wrap now, it'll still be OK because you haven't done anything to the little/little combination. I might even be inclined to leave the front derailleur alone but, for rough riding cyclecross, I suspect you'll want it closer to the chainrings to keep the chain from bouncing off.
08-26-05, 10:51 AM
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What's the BCD of your crank? Is a 44T or 46T ring even available for it?
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08-26-05, 11:05 AM
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You'll have to shorten the chain, and lower your front derailleur. Lowering the front derailleur might be a problem if you have a small frame (52cm or smaller), the bottom of the front derailleur might hit the chainstay when you shift.
Rivendell sells a small front derailleur with a sharper curve to it that works in this situation. Or, you could try an old mtn bike one, or modify your own.
I got chainrings for my cross bike at loosescrews.com, they have lots of sizes very cheap. Sheldon's got them at harriscyclery.com, too.
Rivendell sells a small front derailleur with a sharper curve to it that works in this situation. Or, you could try an old mtn bike one, or modify your own.
I got chainrings for my cross bike at loosescrews.com, they have lots of sizes very cheap. Sheldon's got them at harriscyclery.com, too.
08-26-05, 11:28 AM
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Ah, good point re: the derailleur. I hadn't even thought of that. Hmm, I do have a small frame too, 48 cm IF. Sounds like a job for my shop...
