Compact Chain set and Cassette
Patrick has decided that he should change to a compact chain set, a 50/34 from a normal chain set 53/39. This is a good idea, but he wants to also change his cassette from a 12-23 to an 11-25, this we are not to sure about!
Question:
I am considering a change to a compact 50/34 11-25 (10 spd) back cassette from the traditional 53/39 12-23 (9 spd) that I have used for years. I do fear losing the torch of the 53 tooth, but feel I may pick up the much needed hill climbing set of the compact 34 tooth along with the 25 tooth back gear. Any feedback or recommendations?
Hi Patrick,
Losing the 53 chain ring is no loss, there is a bit of a drop from 53 to 50, but with the 11 sprocket instead of the 12 sprocket will help. I just wondered why you were going for the 25 sprocket, if you are managing well enough with a 39 tooth chain ring and a 23 sprocket then you will probably find the 34 x 25 very small. I would stay with a 23 sprocket at the back as the change from a 39 x 23 to a 34 x 25; you can drop to that in later life!
 Triple Chainset |
If you want an easier life; then go for the much lower geared option of the 34 chain ring and the 25 tooth sprocket, but if you still want to be fit and fast then don’t drop the gear too much, as you will find that it hurts just as much, but it takes a lot longer to climb hills. Also you will find that you will loose power as you will not be pushing so hard on the pedals but spinning more, which will not build up your power. This all depends on what you are looking for from your cycling.
 Compact Chainset |
The next step from buying a compact chain set is a triple chain set, which will take your gears right down so you could nearly climb up the side of a house. The triple was a great invention for touring with luggage and mountain biking on very difficult terrain, but the compact should be OK for most normal road conditions without going so far as to buy a triple.
TOP TIP: Think about what gears you use before you change your chain set or cassette.
 Normal Chainset |
