Bicycle Mechanics - 105 hub 8 speed Question

I have a complete Sora based commuter bike. I want to upgrade the wheels/hubs to 105/MA3 rims and stay with 8 speed. The 105 rear hub would be a FH-5501. Shimano's website says the hub is 8-9 speed capatible. I want to confirm that I can put my 8 speed Sora cassette (HG-50-8) on this hub. If so, will I need any spacers to make this work. Would I be better off staying with the Sora hub (FH-3300) for compatibility ? I can get a 105/MA3 wheelset for the same price as Sora/MA3 wheelset so I thought I would go for the 105s, but only if it is compatible. Thanks

Given that both are 8 speed yes it will work.

Check http://www.sheldonbrown.com/k7.html .


Basically, all hubs can use either an 8-speed cassette or a 9-speed cassette. The older hubs, however, don't accept "11" as their smallest cog. So if you had a cassette that started with 11, it means your hub is OK. If your existing cassette starts at 12 or 13, you will have to check against the figures or have the LBS check your bike to see whether or not your freehub does indeed accept an "11".

Apart from that, all Shimano cassettes fit all Shimano-compatible Freehubs, there is no technical difference between road and mountain cassettes.

Thanks Mgagnonlv, I reviewed your comments and Sheldon Brown's website and confirmed my question. I think I will purchase a lockring remover and chain whip and do this work myself. It appears to be straight forward. On paper, the 105 hubs will be better than the Sora's. But I must admit, for commuting, my existing Sora hubs are solid. I noticed you are a year around cyclist in Montreal. I heard your city has lots of bike lanes, bike traffic lights, and is biker friendly. You must have a lot of equipment to make it through a Montreal winter. In Hartford, we are way behind as far as bike lanes, but we are starting. Hartford striped about 3 miles of bike lanes this year and the mayor has said he is committed to reviewing bike lanes each time a section of road is re-paved. I know it is small, but we need to start somewhere.

Originally posted by mgagnonlv
Check http://www.sheldonbrown.com/k7.html .


Basically, all hubs can use either an 8-speed cassette or a 9-speed cassette. .

Not "all" hubs can use 8 or 9. Also since Sora is not that old using gear cog combinations is not really an issue. More likely than not his original cassette can transfer to the 105 hub. Also pre 97 Dura Ace or "silent clutch" is not compatible with "all" freehub bodies.

Thanks Hunter - Yes, my bike is a 2001 model with all Sora components. So the 8 speed cassette should transfer over to the 105 hub.