johngwheeler

I have a Giant TCX Cross bike with a SRAM Rival 1 group set, including an 11-32 cassette. This 1x11 groupset is quite nice, but I do notice it lacks gear ratios at both ends of the spectrum.

I'm wondering whether it would be possible to fit a SRAM 11-speed 10-42 cassette to the bike, and what work this would involve. Looking and SRAM's web site shows that the XG-1150 FULL PIN™ Cassette looks like it would fit the Rival derailleur, but I don't know whether there are any other dimensions (e.g hub width) to take into account. I've never replaced any parts on a bike and don't know what's involved!

Are there any downsides to choosing a wider cassette range?

Thanks,

John

johngwheeler

I've just found that the 10-42T cassette requires an XD hub:

"The 11-36 cassette is the widest that will fit to a regular freehub. To use SRAM's 10-42, you need a wheel with one of SRAM's XD driver bodies, and there are quite a few compatible wheels now available."

I'm not sure if the same chain on my 11-32 cassette could be used.

So it looks like this would either be a significant re-build, or maybe a whole new rear wheel with hub & cassette.

Jarrett2

What version of the Rival 1 DR is it? If its the 2.1, you can use a 11-42 cassette with it.

I like the Shimano XT over the SRAM through with my SRAM Rival 1x setup.

You'll need to at least add links to the chain if not get a new one. Make sure its a 120 link chain though as you'll need the reach.

Let me see if I can find my conversion thread for you.

Jarrett2

Here you go:

https://www.bikeforums.net/bicycle-me...w-11-32-a.html

johngwheeler

Thanks; I'm not sure what the version of the Rival derailleur is - but the bike is the 2017 model (TCX Advanced Pro 2). The wheels are Giant PX-2, which I don't think have the XD Drive hub.

I'll look at the Shimano XT - are there any challenges mixing Shimano & SRAM components?

Looks like either a new chain, or some extra links would be necessary.

I was investigating the idea of just getting a whole new wheel-set so that I can keep the CX knobbly tires on one (probably run tubeless), and some road/gravel tires on the other for general purpose use. But this is looking like a >$500 option, so I'm making sure I know what I'm doing first!

Thanks,

John

Jarrett2

No issues and I think the XT cassette is better quality than the SRAM equivalent. I ran the SRAM cassette initially, but it was a bit noisy, so I spent $60 on the XT and now have it on three wheelsets instead. All other components being SRAM.

Jarrett2

This is the one I'm talking about:

Shimano XT CS-M8000 11 Speed Cassette > Components > Drivetrain > Cassettes | Jenson USA

Jarrett2

Here's the info on the DR:

https://www.sram.com/sram/road/produ...ear-derailleur

• Medium cage: 11-26 through 11-36 cassettes(269g)
• Long cage: 10-42 cassette

You probably have the medium. Can run up to a 36 cassette with it. $99 to replace.

Bill Kapaun

I'm ignorant about SRAM, but I've noticed Shimano also spec's a different hub for their monster sized cogs.
I believe it's a strength issue.
One can generate a lot more force on the hub with a 22/42 combo vs a 22/34 combo which was about the lowest you could go until "recent" times.

Retro Grouch 

Not a chance. It'll be too short. If you ever accidentally shift into the big/big combination it'll twist your rear derailleur into the spokes.

Racing Dan

I was thinking Shimano as well. Just wanted to mention there is a cheaper 11sp SLX option in either 11-40 or 42. To get a higher gear a bigger chain ring is also needed possibly negating most of the low gear gains.