32T Cassette on a road bike?

emeryjim
emeryjim Posts: 61
edited April 2012 in Workshop
Hi,

I've just bought a used road bike to build my MTB endurance over winter.

The bike has a double (53, 39) chainring with a 27T rear cassette. The rear derailluer is a short cage ultegra 9speed.

Question is:
Can I run a 32T rear cassette so I can ride the Peak District within low intensity heart rates?

(yes, yes, I should just be fitter!)

If so, would an mtb rear cassette be my only choice?

Jim

Comments

  • John.T
    John.T Posts: 3,698
    edited December 2011
    Can I run a 32T rear cassette
    Possibly, and a rear mech too unless you have a longer than normal mech hanger. MTB or Sram Apex cassette would fit.
    Depending how much you are prepared to spend other options include a compact chainset or converting to a triple. Cost wise with careful buying the MTB mech, cassette and chain may be similar to a compact chainset. The compact would be easier to do.
  • tim_wand
    tim_wand Posts: 2,552
    This wont work with a short cage rear mech.

    Sram Apex road will handle 32 teeth. but Sram rear mech wont work with Shimano sti shifters.

    Try a Shimano MTB rear mech and cassette. this will work fine (ala Dawes Galaxy and many touring bikes)
  • emeryjim
    emeryjim Posts: 61
    A late thanks for your replies...

    I decided the best option was to stop whining and man up :)