Bikedued

I am a pretty experienced mechanic, but this one is making me crazy. I am running a top pull low mount Mega 9 Deore derailleur on what I am guessing is about an 06 Fantom Pro 29er. The tire is a Nobby Nic which I believe is a 2.2? (Stock tire from a 2013 Giant Trance FSR) I can check for sure tomorrow. The issue I am having is that there is around 1/8" inch (or less) between the shoulder knobs with the front derailleur in the small ring. It's close enough that if I have a rim issue on the rear while riding, and get even the slightest warp, I will be dead in the water, and the bike won't roll at all. Not to mention possibly ripping the derailleur to pieces in the process. The crank is from an entry level 2012 Giant XTC if I remember correctly. The wheelset is from a 2013 Specialized Hard Rock Sport 29er. Shifters are brand new Shimano Deore 9 speed. Chain is a brand new Sram 9 speed as well.

Is there a derailleur that gives a little more clearance, that will still be 9 speed index compatible? I am already having slow shifting to the small gear trying to keep it from rubbing. I have a little room to slightly re-dish the wheel if necessary?,,,,BD

I am not against a smaller rear tire, but it would be nice to have matching brand/model/size..

dsbrantjr

I feel your pain, I have two bikes where the FD mechanism is the limiting factor for rear tire size. From the photo you will need a top- or dual-pull derailleur.

Bikedued

It's a top or bottom dual pull already. Top mount will not work because of water bottle mount.,,,,BD

NYMXer

Is there any chance that the wheel isn't fully seated in a straight position?
BTW, nice bike

RubeRad

Why does top-pull make a difference? Isn't the contact with the cage?

dsbrantjr

It needs to be top (or dual) pull because the cable stop is on the seat tube and the shift wire is coming down from the top.