Cassette change

Jon_1976

i currently have a Specialized Allez compact with a 12-25 8 speed cassette. Round where I live there are some pretty steep hills (ranging from 7-13%). i'm finding the 34/25 combination very hard and would like to change to a 28. Would a 11-28 fit on my bike (which uses the Shimano 2300 sti groupset)? Also would i need a longer chain?
thanks

styxd

You're probably better off just pedalling harder.

rolf_f

11-28 should be fine though 12-28 would probably be better as the 11 is a bit pointless.

You would need a longer chain but that's a neutral cost - you'll want to keep the old cassette and chain for flatter routes.

Jon_1976

Thank you Rolf

mroli

Get one of these: http://www.wiggle.co.uk/kmc-78-speed-chain-links/

and it'll make swapping chains easier too.

t4tomo

If your only ever using the 28 with the small ring (which you should be) then you possibly don't need a longer chain. However its good practice to start off with a new chain for a new cassette as a slighhtly wron chai can make your cassette start to wear quicker.

11-28, 12-28 makes little difference, the 11 gives you a slightly higher "top" gear at the expense of a slightly bigger jump somewhere so buy whichever available / cheaper or whatever

Finlaz22

It'll be fine, but like the guys have said you'll probably switch back after a while! But if you do, you shouldn't need a longer chain

john1967

styxd wrote:

You're probably better off just pedalling harder.

why?