Bicycle Mechanics - 6/7/8 speed chain on a friction shifted 9 speed cassette?

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tmoneygetpaid
06-24-07, 10:06 AM
So the title asks the question directly: can I use a 6/7/8 speed chain on a 9 speed cassette if I am using friction shifting? Related to this question I'd also like to know why chains have recommended gearings. Is it something to do with shifting, spacing, or something else entirely?

Thanks!

dobber
06-24-07, 10:16 AM
Width of chain / spacing of cogs
HillRider
06-24-07, 10:20 AM
A too wide chain can rub against the adjacent cogs and be very intolerant of even the slightest misalignment. You can go the other way and use a narrower chain on a wider spaced cassette.

vpiuva
06-24-07, 10:37 AM
If you want it to shift well use a 9s chain.
tmoneygetpaid
06-24-07, 10:44 AM
Hm... I thought all derailler chains were 3/32 wide.
barba
06-24-07, 10:45 AM
Hm... I thought all derailler chains were 3/32 wide.

Inner width.
vpiuva
06-24-07, 10:49 AM
And now w/10s they're sometimes advertised as 11/128"