Bicycle Mechanics - MTB cassettes Shimano XTR vs SRAM

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View Full Version : MTB cassettes Shimano XTR vs SRAM

jwill911
10-09-08, 06:12 PM
I'm planning to modify one of my bikes to be more suited to climbing steep hills. The one I'm targeting has Shimano 105 9 speed w/ triple crank 30/39/52, I'm going to replace the rear derailluer with a long cage XTR. Now I'm looking at cassettes and haven't decided yet on 11-32, 11-34, or 12-34. What confuses me is the price dis parody between all the different models of Shimano and SRAM. I can see the XTRs three largest cogs are titanium, and is fairly light but >$200 is more than I plan to spend. Many of the SRAMs are ~$30-$65. Any opinions on the best bang for the buck in this area?

Thanks in advance,
jw

AEO
10-09-08, 06:37 PM
if you're experimenting with gearing, then just get the cheapest instead of buying an expensive model.
Chris_W
10-10-08, 09:39 AM
Instead of changing the RD and cassette, why not just switch your inner chainring for a 26 instead of 30? It would be much cheaper (US$15-40 depending on brand). Don't forget to add a Third Eye chain watcher (about $10-15) or something similar to prevent your chain from dropping off the inside of your rings.