double to compact- 8 to 9 speed-how tricky/expensive?

tozi1
tozi1 Posts: 119
edited May 2009 in Workshop
I have a shimano sorus 8 speed set up,unused so far as i have re-started my riding on my mtb.I have been following various threads on compacts v. doubles and i suspect i will struggle with a low of 39 x 23-so i wondered about the practicality of swapping for a compact,and changing to a 9 speed at the same time,or is it a case of having to start again with levers,hubs (tiagra at present) bottom bracket etc.Any thoughts appreciated.

Comments

  • alfablue
    alfablue Posts: 8,497
    Cheapest would be to buy a bigger range cassette (a Sram 8 speed 11-28 for maybe £20).

    Going to 9 speed needs new shifters and cassette. I got some s/h Ultegra's on the classified forum for £30, but s/h prices are going higher to reflect the rise in new prices. A 9 speed cassette could be had for £20-£40 (try Woolly Hat Shop). You would also need a 9 speed chain (KMC from Merlin, about £15).

    Going compact, you could do that independently of cassette, chain or shifter changes.

    Your hubs will take 9 speed cassettes, no problem.

    Personally, I think it is well worth upgrading from Sora shifters, so going 9 speed at the same time is obvious.
  • tozi1
    tozi1 Posts: 119
    thanks alfablue.I think the nine speed option is the way forward. Cheers
  • alfablue
    alfablue Posts: 8,497
    9 speed in itself won't get you a bigger range of gears, just more gears, so I presume you mean the bigger cassette as well. You can always go to compact at a later date (or pay day :wink: ) if you need a lower gear.
  • tozi1
    tozi1 Posts: 119
    Yes-I really want smaller gears to allow me to bring my fitness level up at a less painful rate,and having follwed other threads about compact v.doubles-a compact set up seems the way to go,and so i thought i might as well go a bit further and get a 9 speed cassette and shifter.Thanks for your interest.

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