Need more gears but unsure of what to get.
Hi,
I had a gravel biking trip at the weekend and ran out of gears quite often. Looking to get some easier gearing so I can get up climbs easier.
Current setup is
RD-RX817 di2 long cage derailleur
11-42t XT M8000 Cassette
42t shimano chainring up front.
I am trying to work out what my options are here and get some advice.
1. Change rear cassette to an 11-50t, not sure this would be enough. Would I need to change the Rx817? it only has a 31t range according to shimano. What about if I installed a new cage and pulley from garbaruk?
2. Go 2x. For this I believe I would need the GRX di2 front derailleur and cranks (30-46). But would I also need the Rx815 derailleur? As I am not sure if you can setup Rx817 in a 2x configuration. Also if I went this route would I have to move to a smaller cassette or could I get that working with the 815 or 817?
With these new setups would I need a new chain as well?
If someone could help me with my questions or provide alternatives I might be missing that would be appreciated.
I really want to be able to spin up hills and still have the same top end gear for flats and roads as I use the 11t frequently on the current setup.
Thanks