Bicycle Mechanics - Anyone know the compatibility of different Shimano components?

Hello,

I'm still new to this DIY stuff and am unsure which components work with which...

I was thinking of trying my hand at building a new rear wheel using a 9sp FH-2200 hub, but don't know if the following components would work together on a road bike:

Shimano 2300 8sp chainset + HG50 8sp cassette + HG50 6/7/8sp chain

I have no idea if they're Sora, Tiagra, etc, but I was hoping it didn't matter... Alternatively, could anyone recommend a cheap combination (the fewer gears the better)?

Also, would I need a new dérailleur too? I was hoping to use the cheapo Shimano thing I have for my 6sp freewheel...

Thanks!

Uplah

I want to say that all of that will work together, especially if you're using friction shifters.

No problem they will play together; the 2200 is simply a step down from Sora; compatibility wise, they are identical

Thanks guys!

Uplah

Shimano indexed road components are generally all compatible with each other, especially when they are the same speed.

A 10 speed shifter will shift an "8" speed rd just fine and an 8 speed shifter will shift a "10" speed rd fine.

Generally speaking the rd does not care what speed shifter it is mated to. As long as cassette matches shifter

The exception to this rule is 8 speed da though.

Who knows what compatibility lurks in the hearts of parts, Shimano knows!

http://bike.shimano.com/publish/content/global_cycle/en/us/index/tech_support/tech_tips.html

=8-)

That's encouraging.

I have another question - the square spindle thing in the bottom bracket, is that a set standard size?

Cheers,

Uplah

That's encouraging.

I have another question - the square spindle thing in the bottom bracket, is that a set standard size?

Cheers,

Uplah

Back in the day, there were several degrees of ramp, several lengths of square, and several starting end thicknesses and ending thicknesses...creating considerable mismatch hell. I don't believe that's the case today. Could be wrong though...

=8-)

- the square spindle thing in the bottom bracket, is that a set standard size?

Short answer: NO.

A while back Campagnolo offered their cranks/BB in square-tapered form. Though visually similar, it was different to what Shimano had. Stick with the Shimano cranks if you have a Shimano BB. However the Sora and Tiagra line has recently been upgraded to splined spindles. Older Sora (3400?) and older Tiagra (4400?) are still square-tapered to my knowledge.

Square taper spindles come in various lengths to fit various cranks.
You need to know the length required for your specific crank.

Thanks!

It looks like I need a 110mm spindle length for the 2300 crankset I'm thinking about. However, I have another question - if I do get a new bottom bracket, I have a choice of 68 mm or 73 mm. Should this measurement be as close to the width of the frame where it is installed, or should it jut out a bit?

Uplah

Thanks!

It looks like I need a 110mm spindle length for the 2300 crankset I'm thinking about. However, I have another question - if I do get a new bottom bracket, I have a choice of 68 mm or 73 mm. Should this measurement be as close to the width of the frame where it is installed, or should it jut out a bit?

Uplah

A "road bike" almost certainly has a 68mm wide bottom bracket shell. Mountain bike come in 68mm and 73mm.

Hello again,

I'm still not that confident with what I'm doing...

I just realised that to update all the gearing, I will also have to change the down tube shifter (and possibly the dérailleur) - I should just get a new bike?!

Anyway, for now, would it be possible to use the 2300 8sp chainset with my current cheapo 6sp freewheel? I only use the large ring so I'm hoping that there shouldn't be any compatibility issues?

Thanks,

Uplah