New cassette - what's with all the different teeth options?

dodgyknees

Looking to upgrade the no name 8 sp cassette on my GT but am a bit baffled by the array of different teeth options available.
Current cassette is 11-30 but I've seen many different options such as 11-28, 11-32, 12-21 etc.
What are the riding differences/merits of the different teeth options?

Also, any suggestions for a good 8 sp cassette? Was looking at the Shimano Hyperglide range. Currently running a Shimano Deore LX rear deraiileur.

FSR_XC

IMO, have a look at what size you have now.

Now ask yourself if you every need a higher or lower gear.

If you have an 11-30 and struggle on some hills, get an 11-32.

If you're happy, don't change the size.

Only problem you might have is what sizes are actually available in 8 speed.

toasty

If you do literally have dodgy knees I'd avoid the 11-21/11-28 You'll effectively lose your easy gears compared to your current setup. Roadies use the smaller gearing (like the 21) for smaller jumps between gears, off road we need a much wider selection of gears.

I'd probably replace it with whatever was there before for simplicity.

supersonic

What is wrong with the cassette you have?

dodgyknees

supersonic wrote:

What is wrong with the cassette you have?

Did a recent upgrade of the rear derailleur & gear shifters to Deore LX from Acera but shifting through the cassette still a bit clunky. Thought that upgrading the cassette to a Hypergilde might improve this.

supersonic

Hard to say. Could be that at new cassette and chain will remedy it.

But LX 8speed shifters? Didn't think you could get them anymore?

dodgyknees

supersonic wrote:

But LX 8speed shifters? Didn't think you could get them anymore?

Yes, most stuff is now aimed at 9sp. Had to buy the LH & RH shifters from separate online sellers as couldn't find anywhere that had both.

FSR_XC

Still don't say what gearing you have already & if you have any issues pedaling in highest & lowest gears.

Are the cables new too?