rear derailler cage lengths?

jadamson

after getting top of the range cassette and chain I'm thinking about replacing my 2 year old sram x7 derailler. is there much advantage to a more expensive derailler? and how do all the different cage lengths actually change the performance? also is shadow really worth the extra? ive never nocked mine when leaning over...

thank in advance

chedabob

Cage length determines how much slack the derailleur can take up. If you've got 3 on the front, you'll probably need a long cage.

Anonymous

i cant feel the difference between my x0 and my old x7, i dont really think anyone can really feel the difference in their rear mech. however, the shifters do feel physically different when you get better specced ones.

blister pus

and they last / stay in shape longer. pivots / springs and whatnot

jadamson

sheepsteeth wrote:

i cant feel the difference between my x0 and my old x7, i dont really think anyone can really feel the difference in their rear mech. however, the shifters do feel physically different when you get better specced ones.

So more worthwhile getting better shifters and just servicing my rear derailleur?

Anonymous

jadamson wrote:

sheepsteeth wrote:

i cant feel the difference between my x0 and my old x7, i dont really think anyone can really feel the difference in their rear mech. however, the shifters do feel physically different when you get better specced ones.

So more worthwhile getting better shifters and just servicing my rear derailleur?

if i was looking for improved shifting, it is what i would do. definately

jadamson

sheepsteeth wrote:

jadamson wrote:

sheepsteeth wrote:

i cant feel the difference between my x0 and my old x7, i dont really think anyone can really feel the difference in their rear mech. however, the shifters do feel physically different when you get better specced ones.

So more worthwhile getting better shifters and just servicing my rear derailleur?

if i was looking for improved shifting, it is what i would do. definitely

okay so next question, is my rear x7 derailleur and x5 front compatible with say an x9 or x0 shifter? also in your opinion, do cables make a difference?

Anonymous

yup they will be compatible.

in my opinion, the actual cables make no difference to shifting, normal shimano cables well maintained will perform flawlessly. i could feel no difference with xtr cables compared to the normal cheapo ones which come with any shifters.

people will tell you different though.

jadamson

okay thank for all your help

snotty badger

chedabob wrote:

Cage length determines how much slack the derailleur can take up. If you've got 3 on the front, you'll probably need a long cage.

Not really. A typical set up is fine with a medium cage tbh.