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XT medium cage shadow+ rear mech is rated to 35t. Will I get away with this with a 11-36 / 26-38t setup? Or die horribly in flames if I try to shift into big/big?
I'm not in the habit of doing this - my 3x9 probably needs a longer chain to even make it onto 34x42, but there's a bigger risk of carelessness in 2x10.
Does the 'medium for 2x10' maxim still apply even with bigger cassettes for weaklings?
That probably wouldn't work as the range is 37, and I'd not risk it as riding a double does encourage you to ride big-big more often as it has a better chain line than a triple.
I'd swap the front with either a 28t or 36t, or go to a 11-34 cassette which should be more than enough on a double.
11-34 cassette which should be more than enough
Might just make it - currently my lowest gear is 24-34. Still use it very occasionally as I prefer to sit and spin if possible.
Could just go long cage and make sure.
It's all well and good checking the numbers but, don't forget chain growth due to suspension action. Also, if you're using a clutch mech, a long cage might just make enough difference to chain tension to stop things flapping around in the smallest sprocket.