Chainset Wear and tear - 9sp or ^ to 10sp (DH/Play Bike)

The Northern Monkey

So, I've been servicing my Canyon over winter to make sure its ready for another season of abuse.

I've sorted most stuff now, but the chain and cassette (9sp) are well worn so need to be replaced.
Its got nice saint shifter and rear mech, which are now about 2 years old, but seem to be working ok.

The issue I have is, that due to chain growth, I don't think I can realistically run a Saint/Zee 10sp rear mech and expect them to be able to shift up to a 40/42T expander.

I ride the bike everywhere, so an extra climbing gear would be ideal.

I think XT 10sp will be needed to ensure it will work, but can I get away with a medium length cage rather than a long? (Or will a saint/Zee work?)
Or, do I just change the cassette and chain, plod on as normal and save some ££??

paul.skibum

I have a long cage on my Bronson but a medium will work especially if you get the RAD cage from One Up to go with their range expander.

swod1

As paul says use the rad cage plate which would work on a medium xt m786 clutch mech.

I’m in the process of doing this on my hardtail, i have a long cage mech so need the rad cage to shorten it.

will your saint shifter work with 10spd to save cash on buying one of them.

The Northern Monkey

nah saint is 9sp only unfortunately.

I'm swaying towards keeping it 9sp to keep costs down (£40 v £140is).
Although, I do have a spare 10sp deore rear mech and part worn cassette (would still need a chain quide for this setup.

rockmonkeysc

I found that the cost is going up and availability of 9 speed is not as good. A lot of the better quality stuff isn't available in 9 speed any more.
If you break a mech on a ride you probably won't get a 9 speed replacement in your local shop but they will probably have 10 speed.

step83

Seen the same issue as RC, you get all the good kit in 10/11spd now with 9spd gear becoming less common. I'm sure I saw 10spd saint rear shifters for about £15 on CRC if it helps.
May well be a plan to move over with what you can for now and upgrade as it wears itll cost the same in the long run but its not as bad at taking the hit in one lump.