Do bigger chain rings require longer chain?
07-27-20, 11:46 AM
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Do bigger chain rings require longer chain?
If I replace my 48/32 with 52/36 will I have to replace (or lengthen) the chain?
07-27-20, 11:57 AM
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Yes.
Replace.
John
Replace.
John
07-27-20, 01:26 PM
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If you have to save the chain, you could put rear cassette on with smaller low gears. IE if your current is a 11-30, then maybe an 11-28 would let you keep the same chain.
Of course chains are usually cheaper than cassettes. And you'd have to have some quads like Kittel to push your new low gear ratio up a steep climb if you are used to the low gears you are giving up.
Of course chains are usually cheaper than cassettes. And you'd have to have some quads like Kittel to push your new low gear ratio up a steep climb if you are used to the low gears you are giving up.
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07-27-20, 11:16 PM
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https://www.parktool.com/blog/repair...-length-sizing
07-28-20, 10:13 AM
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and i really like the small small sizing approach.... big thing is to make sure that big/big works so you have no bad results in the event of an accidental shift into big/big
i have used this for both modern and vinatage set ups
i have used this for both modern and vinatage set ups
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07-28-20, 10:25 AM
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Replace the chain. You are already going to replace the chainrings and cassette. You would be foolish to run an old chain with a new drivetrain.
If the chain length was correct for 48/32 there is not a snowballs chance it will fit with a 52/36.
John
If the chain length was correct for 48/32 there is not a snowballs chance it will fit with a 52/36.
John
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07-29-20, 09:08 AM
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maybe, see Park Tools instructions. I’ve used the big chainring big cog methods with no problems.
https://www.parktool.com/blog/repair...-length-sizing
https://www.parktool.com/blog/repair...-length-sizing
07-30-20, 06:37 AM
#11
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The big/big plus 1 inch method does not work with Campy's new RDs that have an extended mounting bracket or any RD with a wolf tooth extender. The little/little method only works if you're not exceeding the RD's wrap capacity. I have a Campy 12 setup with a 10-36 sram 12 cassette that has a 42T wrap, but the RD only has 39T of wrap. The chain will hang loose in the little ring and 2-3 of the smallest sprockets. The chain is 1 inch longer than normal and must be to wrap the big/big. I have shifted into that combo unintentionally.
