[Closed] Alpine 160... A few questions if I may?

I'm riding 32x11-36 on my Alpine. I'm by no means very fit and have been ok out in the Alps this summer and around the Forest Of Dean. I think I'd struggle somewhere like Cwmcarn, but I found it pretty hard on the very steep stuff with my 2x10. I switched as I've always had problems with front mechs over the years and prefer the simplicity of a IO chain ring but can't afford a 1x11 drivetrain. For the most part I'm happy to walk if it gets to steep for me.

I'm currently running Hope Pro 2 Evos and as far as I know you will just need the standard 12x135 conversion kit (think you have the right link). If you're not sure just contact Hope and they'll tell you. I usually email them.

Tom KP

Alpine rear end is 142 x 12 though isn't it?

That's what I've just successfully fitted to my new Alpine frame anyway.

I changed 'back' from 1x10 to 2x10 as it made my knees hurt, I rode all year with it, and it does work but struggling in the lowest gear on steep long climbs just wasn't for me (I like spinning). Couldn't see why ppl think front mech are a faff, and when you weigh as much as "us" is the weight saving really worthwhile?
Didn't find that the 1x10 system wore excessively, in fact it surprised me how well it did lasted till it wore out. If you do convert, definitely get a clutch mech to go with it IMO. I only went 1x10 as it came on the new bike, definitely wouldn't change to it (when it comes, cheap 11 speed maybe), unless I was going to use a cassette extender (which are too much of a compromise IMO).

As above, isn't the Alpine a 142mm rear end?

The discounted 27.5 2014 models I've been looking at are anyway.

The frame I'm getting is a 2013. I can't find any definitive info.on it. I'll have to see if the seller can confirm I guess?

Is there a rear cassette in 9 speed flavour that has a large cog @36 teeth or is that the realm of 10 speeders only?

Thanks for the advice on the clutch mech. I have been wavering on using all the stuff off my SX Trail that I'll be breaking down but on looking on what's now available I might go down the expensive route (LOL)
Rod

Ribble do a full Shimano 2x10 groupset in Deore for £145 or SLX for £190, that's where I'd go for a new drive train at the moment.

I converted my 2x9 to 1x9 over weekend on my Spec Enduro as I found that I didnt use the granny ring at all.

I use a 34t front with a 11-32 on back with all my standard XT/XTR stuff I already had. I purchased a Narrow Wide front 34t and away I go.

At some point I will go to a 11-34 on back when current cassette wears out but for my weekly ride and around Dalby over hols which doesnt have many hills I found that setup more than fine

Depends on what equipment you already have lying about which will help make a decision. I looked at that deal on Ribbles but felt it wasnt worth the expense of getting a 11-36 on back

you can get 12-36 (9 speed) deore cassettes, but if your staying 3 or 2x9 why worry, or are you thinking of trying 1x9?

The Alpine used to be 135mm Maxle rear end so you are right about that. The new ones are 142mm. Id get a Hope Trex, been great on my Asr. Didnt even need to adjust the mech that much.

Ps, Is it defo an Pro 2 and not a Pro2 evo hub? On the evos you just buy the end caps conversion kit.

cheers again all.
Hub is a PRO 2 so the thru axle kit @135 it is.

Gearing - with regards the cassette 36 teeth, yes again, I was going to try 1 x 9 with longer ratios. I find that when I change I generally skip a gear. So I thought I'd give it a go with a 32 or 34 front which I already have and I'd use the current mech and shifted (bit brasic having bought the frame and forks) Good shout on the deore 🙂

Thanks again,
Rod