Compact help

Chip \'oyler
Chip \'oyler Posts: 2,323
edited November 2008 in Workshop
Hi

I've just changed my 53/39 chainset to a compact 50/34, but I'm having trouble getting a good chainlength! I've tried a couple of lengths (all shorter than the original), and it seems to short on the big ring/large sprockets, and too slack on little ring/small sprockets.

Does anyone have any suggestions - or an idea of an ideal link count?
Expertly coached by http://www.vitessecyclecoaching.co.uk/

http://vineristi.wordpress.com - the blog for Viner owners and lovers!

Comments

  • Monty Dog
    Monty Dog Posts: 20,614
    Wrap the chain around the big ring and big sprocket - missing out the derailleur - and add one link. Can't give the length in links as this relates to chainstay length which can vary depending on frame.
    Make mine an Italian, with Campagnolo on the side..
  • ride_whenever
    ride_whenever Posts: 13,279
    Sounds like your mech isn't long enough for the amount of slack you are trying to take up. I'd get the chain length correct, ie round big and big without going through the rear mech and adding a complete link, see how that fares.

    If you can't get small small then i wouldn't worry too much, it isn't a vital gear and will probably be replicated somewhere...
    Neeermad
    Carbon 456
    456 lefty
    Pompino
    White Inbred
  • maddog 2
    maddog 2 Posts: 8,114
    just don't run small-small
    Facts are meaningless, you can use facts to prove anything that's remotely true! - Homer
  • robbarker
    robbarker Posts: 1,367
    Which components?

    Some compact setups require a medium cage (or GS in Shimano terminology) rear derailleur, rather than the short cage you are likely running at present.
  • Chip \'oyler
    Chip \'oyler Posts: 2,323
    Thanks for the help so far :)

    It's a 10spd Short cage Veloce derailleur with a Veloce compact.

    TBH I didn't realise that I might require a new Derailleur, it's bloody costly this upgrading lark! :roll:
    Expertly coached by http://www.vitessecyclecoaching.co.uk/

    http://vineristi.wordpress.com - the blog for Viner owners and lovers!
  • itboffin
    itboffin Posts: 20,073
    Oh pant's I've just bought a double to replace my compact I hope I don't need a new rear mech as well, that will not go down well.
    Rule #5 // Harden The Feck Up.
    Rule #9 // If you are out riding in bad weather, it means you are a badass. Period.
    Rule #12 // The correct number of bikes to own is n+1.
    Rule #42 // A bike race shall never be preceded with a swim and/or followed by a run.
  • maddog 2
    maddog 2 Posts: 8,114
    you don't need a new mech, you just need to change gear. Much cheaper.
    Facts are meaningless, you can use facts to prove anything that's remotely true! - Homer

Categories