Bicycle Mechanics - Can I use a standard FD if I change from a 44-32-22 to a 48-36-26 ?

Hi All,

I have a Cannondale Caffeine 3:

http://www.cannondale.com/bikes/07/cusa/mountain/caffeine/model-7FS3.html

which came with a SRAM X-7 RD, LX FD, and a 9spd 11-34 cassette. I don't go offroad much and am considering swapping the crank for a trekking crank of 48-36-26. Will my FD be able to handle it or not. If not what are my options with regards to the FD ?

Thanks,

J.

Yes, your LX FD should work fine. You'll just need to move it up the seat tube a little, which will also mean you'll need to readjust the cable tension-

EDIT: after looking at the photo of the bike, just make sure you've got chainiring clearance along the driveside chainstay, it already looks very close with the stock setup-

..after looking at the photo of the bike, just make sure you've got chainiring clearance along the driveside chainstay, it already looks very close with the stock setup-

It will be close but I think it should be fine.....:p

I am no expert, but I will say that there is only one way to find out. I've had a lot of people tell me that it doesn't make much difference when discussing max tooth difference but my experience with one of my bikes has taught me that it matters.

I went from a 42 tooth to a 44 tooth, which also increased my max difference because I also went with smaller inner at the same time. What i learned was that my front der. would not work well regardless of what was tried. Finally my LBS ended up bending the crap out of the cage (redesigning it so to speak) to get it to sort of work.

THat was a couple years ago. It never has worked quite right, but fortunately i don't ride that bike much anyway any more. Point? Try it and find out.

Have you considered changing the cassette to something like an 11-28, or if you have very flat land type riding, an 11-21/23?