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I know I know, and apologies – couldn’t find full answers anywhere – so just wondering if STW can sanity check this for me:
I have a 2002/3 Spesh Allez w Columbus tubing, and it’s just dandy. I spose I could replace it with a more modern bike if I could find one, and not break the bank, but it’s not really an option right now, and I fancy getting some foreign climbs in later this year.
Problem is that it’s got a 53/39 chainset on it, and can’t retro fit smaller rings. I’m not as fit as I was so gearing is a bit of a challenge, and all my mates are riding compact chainsets.
I’ve done the thing of fitting an XT 11-32 tooth cassette and a wolftooth extender but not enough of a change. Can’t find any used Octalink compact chainsets – I don’t think they were a thing.
So thinking of buying an 11 speed 105 groupset and changing everything over – any challenges?
Swapping octalink BB for a HT2 seems easy enough (might need a big lever).
Putting a compact crank on is fine – but are there any issues with my chain line?
Probably will need a new wheel with an 11spd compatible hub/freehub
Will I need a short or medium cage RD.
TIA for any help.
You could just replace the crankset completely. A 9 speed chain will run fine on 11sp chainrings. So a swap to a compact 105 11 speed chainset could save you loads if you weren't totally sold on a new groupset.
If you do end up going full 105 11 speed get the 11-34 cassette as this doesn't require the 11 speed road freehub, it's the same width as 8 - 10 speed.
With 9 speed you have loads of options. You can go to 11-36 cassette with a Shimano 9 speed MTB rear mech.
Or you can change the chainset for pretty much any 8/9/10/11 speed compact.
How much lower do you need to go?
Thanks All,
I had got fixated on needing a whole new groupset so thanks for getting me back to sense.
Have just ordered me a 105 11 spd compact with the same crank arm length, BB and new chain. Looked at that Sora, but went with 105 as replacing Ultegra (I know it really makes no difference except my ego)
Probably need a new cassette, none in stock at Merlin, will have a look elsewhere later.
Just need to strongarm the old BB out and i should be good.
Cheers
S