Cyclocross - I want to run 34/42 gears, so i have decided to ditch my standard 130 BCD Shimano cra

Thanks for entertaining my build questions, I appreciate the advice - and I am almost done!

I want to run 34/42 gears, so i have decided to ditch my standard 130 BCD Shimano cranks and get the the FSA Gossamer Compact MegaExo 50/34 Crankset (similar to this:)
http://www.pricepoint.com/detail/22741-100_FSACM1-3-Parts-56-Cranks/Bolts/FSA-Gossamer-Compact-MegaExo-50_34-Crankset.htm

It uses 110 BCD rings. I have replaced the small ring with a SRAM Red 34t chainring and am looking for a good 42T 110 BCD chainring. Any recommendations that would beat just using my big 42/110 BCD ring from a Shimano MTB crank (other than weight since it is steel)?

isnt the mtb ring 4 bolt?
if its a steel ring isnt it sort of funny to pair that with the expense of a sram red ring?

42 should be easy enough to find, or go 44t.

just spend the $ as you'll probably use it for a long time and clunky shifting is not cool.

Yea - you are right, forgot about the 4 bolt.


isnt the mtb ring 4 bolt?
if its a steel ring isnt it sort of funny to pair that with the expense of a sram red ring?

42 should be easy enough to find, or go 44t.

just spend the $ as you'll probably use it for a long time and clunky shifting is not cool.

Since you are using 8 speed and can custom build a cassette to your liking I'd find a 44 front ring. There are some dry/concrete sections to some courses that a 44 could be useful. Also, over really bumpy stuff a low cadence can help smooth stuff out.

Salsa and some others offer ramped smaller outers, in 110bcd.

Thanks again - I will go with a 44 per your suggestion - and yes, I have already arranged a "custom" rear cassette 11-32


Since you are using 8 speed and can custom build a cassette to your liking I'd find a 44 front ring. There are some dry/concrete sections to some courses that a 44 could be useful. Also, over really bumpy stuff a low cadence can help smooth stuff out.

Blackspire as well.