Does Shadow+ need a lower chain guide?

dhooper7

I'm thinking about swapping my 1x9 SRAM setup for a 1x10 Shimano Zee one this summer.

My LBS told me I didn't need a lower chain guide with the Shadow+ clutch system, just a top guide.
Is this true?

So if no lower guide is needed then what protection can get for my 34t chainring?
I can't run a bashring if I need a top guide. And I don't need a lower guide even though I could benefit with a taco style guard most come with.

Has anyone seen a direct mount ISCG taco bash guard without a lower guide?

mcnultycop

I'm trying just a Zee Mech and a bash, no guide at all. I've only tried it on stairs and off kerbs so far and it hasn't come off. I'm taking it off road this weekend.

I did try fitting a Raidium inner guide (with Bash) but it didn't fit my frame. I've bought a top guide, but I like having a full bash, so don't want to fit the top guide if I can avoid it.

dhooper7

I had a lower guide, bashring and f mech. Dropped the mech 3 weeks ago and had no end of problems on the trails.

Hope it goes well for you. Let me know

benpinnick

I run clutch and top guide only (e13 XCX) and its great. Not dropped the chain once. If you run single, a bash is a lot less of an issue as the chain offers your chainring a lot of protection that it doesn't get on a double set up. Ive not missed one.

lawman

What Ben said above. I run an xcx an LG1 and rarely bash the taco plate, so I'll be sticking another xcx on. If you really want the extra protection, rather than those stupid double bash things MRP make the amg which is a top guide with a taco and no lower roller

The Rookie

Do you need a lower guide - nope, would it help - maybe!

widge34

Run a 1x 10 with Zee mech. Only have a top guide. No problems.