Possible Chainset Upgrade

grahamcp

Hi everyone,

I have a 2015 Genesis Croix de Fer 30 (https://www.evanscycles.com/genesis-cro ... e-EV223048) which is fitted with the original 50/34 RS500 chainset.

It's pretty flat where I live and I find myself tending towards either the bottom end of my cassette on the small chainring, or the top of the cassette on the big chainring, which I don't think is ideal.

Therefore I was thinking it might be a good opportunity to upgrade and go for a semi compact 52/36 105 5800 (seen them reduced to £88 at Wiggle http://www.wiggle.co.uk/shimano-105-5800-chainset/) - or perhaps even a full 53/39.

My questions...
Is the 105 I have linked to a straight swap for the RS500 or are there any compatibility issues?
Will the 11-32 cassette still be OK with the 52/36 chainset?
How difficult a job is it to DIY? (I've never changed a chainset before) I gather I'll need a tool to remove/replace the preload cap but not sure if I'll need anything else (apart from allen keys).

Cheers all :-)

flasher

I'd look at changing the cassette if i was in your cycle shoes, 12-25 should do the job, 32 quid at Wiggle, other shops are available.

You may well need to take a link out of the chain, if you go down this route.

http://www.wiggle.co.uk/shimano-105-580 ... -cassette/

Bobbinogs

I would start by using a gear analyser, punch in your current setup, the pick "Compare 2 setups", stick in an alternative and see where the new setup will take you. Using the tool, try a 12-25 cassette, or perhaps a semi-compact, etc., Forget the word "upgrade" for now, it is more about finding a good set of gears that works for you. Have a play with this tool, as an example.

fenix

yeah I think a cassette is the answer. You've got a wide range cassette and you don't need it.

New cassette, Chain whips and Block remover. Sorted.

Maybe a new chain too - but see how you go.

grahamcp

Good thinking everyone, thanks I'll look at the gearing in more detail :-)