105 components and 9s cassette
 

I'm getting a killer deal on a set of older road wheels with a 9s cassette, the owner does not know if the freewheel will fit a 10s cassette on it, so I was wondering if there are any issues with running a 9s drivetrain with 105 shifters and rear derailer.

Thanks

If your shifters are also 9 speed, you'll be fine......10 speed shifters and a 9 speed cassette don't mix well. That said, you should be able to remove the 9 speed cassette and replace with a 10 speed....and don't forget the spacer for that 10 speed cassette.....

good luck.

Just a question since I don't know, is there any difference in the chains between the 10s and 9s?

yes.....

Thanks, the shifters are the new 105 ones, they say that they are compatible with 9s and 10s cassettes, but I have heard otherwise.

The Shimano hubs, except some quirky Dura Aces, usually accept 8-9-10 speed cassettes. So, you can try to install a 10-speed cassette.

That doesn't sound right. Shimano STI shifters are either 9-speed or 10-speed but not both. The rear derailleur will work with either and that may be what you were told.

Your freehub should easily accept a 10-speed cassette. As mentioned, use the very thin spacer that comes with the cassette. You will also need a 10-speed chain.

Your shifters are compatible with a double or triple crankset. If they are 10-speed then they are 10-speed only.

Thanks. I did read that the shifters were both 10s and 9s, and double and tripple compatible. Thanks, I'll try and fit a 10s cassette on there.

TehK, regarding the "shifters". You aren't by chance mixing up the terms "shifter" and "derailleur"?

Shifters, (the part on the handlebars that you actually shift) like said above, are either 9 speed or 10 speed. They can however be compatible with either double or triple front cranks.

Derailleurs (rear) are labeled 9 or 10, but either, if properly adjusted, will work with either 9 or 10 speed shifters.

Regardless, unless the wheel you're looking at has the "10 speed only" Dura Ace hub, it is will most likely take an 8, 9 or 10 speed cassette, with the proper spacers.

What kind of wheel is it - because Mavic is a little different. Still works, but takes different spacers.