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My bike has a full XT 1x11 groupset including a 32t chainring. It gets a bit spinny at the lower end, so I’m thinking of giving a 34t a go. Will it need to be Shimano or can I pretty much use any brand?
You can use any brand who make a suitable chainring with a matching bcd ( bolt pattern )
you don’t mention which version of crank you have so it’s hard to give recommendations.
However. A 2 tooth jump will make pretty much sod all difference VS a slight increase in leg speed ( RPM )
As long as the BCD matches and the offset is broadly comparable, yes.
You'll need to get the 4 bolt asymmetric bolt pattern rings.
and use http://www.gear-calculator.com/# to see how much difference it makes.
Thanks Both. Four bolt crank, not sure which version. Would you recommend the jump to 36t then? I just have concerns about the other end of the cassette when climbing.
Only you know how hilly it is and how you currently cope.
Don't forget you will need a longer ie new chain
Only you know how hilly it is and how you currently cope.
Very and slowly 🙂
Good shout on the chain Murray. I didn’t even think of that for some reason.
Anything with the 96 bcd will do
ive just put an ubercomponents oval ring on mine
Don’t forget you will need a longer ie new chain
If only going up 2T then it's unlikely you'll need a longer chain. 2T would need an extra half link, which you won't be able to make work on narrow wide 🙂 . 4T would need a full link.
If the chain is about right and not on the tight side now, an extra 2T won't matter.
There are two 96mm BCDs a symmetric one and the Shimano asymmetric one.......
Just check what it says on your current chainring - 104 / 96 etc. Shimano thought it was too easy having one standard - may as well have 3.
Thanks everyone
32-36 is quite a jump, Around 12.5%.
do your sums on a gear calculator, you might shrug that difference off no problem, but you might not.
it would be a big difference for me, however I’m aware that im quite sensitive to small changes.
To add I think I’d try the 34 first if it’s very hilly where you are. You could go on sheldon browns gear calculator to compare the different options too.