Originally Posted by
rbrides
My bike's rear derailleur is Shimano Ultegra R8000, short cage, with 30T max cog. I would like to install an 11-34 cassette for better climbing. How can I increase the derailleur capacity? Can I simply install a medium or long cage, with a longer chain? Or, is there more to it than that?
Yes, installing a longer cage derailer is an option. A medium cage derailer will handle a 34 tooth cog. About $100 for the derailer and extra for the chain.
A less expensive alternative that
might work, is the
Wolf Tooth RoadLink. I used one to increase the capacity of an old XTR derailer so that I could use a 36 tooth low. I could probably put in a 40 but I’m already at a silly low gear. It’s only $21. It might or might not work but it’s a bit cheaper than the other route.
