posted by Matt Bracken from Merlin on march 27, 1998 at 09:56:11:
in reply to: larger Chain Ring for XLM posted by benfuto on march 20, 1998 at 09:49:44:
: I have an XLM and XT compact
: I think that means a 42 tooth big ring
: Here is the question
: 1) Can I put on a larger one, 44 46 ????
: 2) Does this mean I have to change bb spidle length
: or any other complications ???
:
: Thanks
The whole point of having a compact system is too
improve the shifting performance of the drivetrain
under load by utilizing smaller chainrings and rear cog
selection. Your compact drive system probably uses an 11-28
tooth rear cluster 9cogset). The front chainrings are typically
22-32-42 or 44.
With these systems you lose weight and improve shifting performance.
The "older" higher gear system user a wider range of chainring and rear tooth
selection that allows you to ride "harder" gears. If you are a real animal, and love torque over high cadence or spinning
then you are all set with a larger chainwheel selection up front.
Now, the bad part. With the Xt compact set up you have it is impossible to find a chainring in the
sizes you need. You can check with the local bike shop and have them skim
through their local parts distributor to see if anyone makes
and adaptor to allow you to still use you existing crank.
Otherwise, you may rethink changing your bb and crank over to the xtr version and using the larger
gears right away.
I hope this helps. If I am confusing the issue more than seems humanly possible I
apologize. Have a great weekend.
Matt B