Touring with a Surly Cross-Check (double crankset)
05-01-08, 12:10 AM
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Touring with a Surly Cross-Check (double crankset)
I'm going on tour (about 2500 miles, NYC to MN) with my Surly Cross-Check. It has low gearing, but with a double crank set I know I have few gear options (its set up with about nine gears).
I've had bike pros look at the bike and say I'll be fine (I'm no wimp), but I've had others look at it and say I definitely need a triple crankset with more gear options.
I understand that a triple is better, but its not in my budget to make that change AND I'm leaving in less than a month.
Can anyone tell me if they my tour is possible with my current set up??
I appreciate any advice!
I've had bike pros look at the bike and say I'll be fine (I'm no wimp), but I've had others look at it and say I definitely need a triple crankset with more gear options.
I understand that a triple is better, but its not in my budget to make that change AND I'm leaving in less than a month.
Can anyone tell me if they my tour is possible with my current set up??
I appreciate any advice!
05-01-08, 12:21 AM
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If you have the pre-built Cross Check, your crankset will accept a third chainring. Then you will just need a wider bottom bracket and need to adjust the derailer. I toured on mine with the compact double crank and an 11-32 cassette, but there aren't any hills in Texas.
05-01-08, 06:00 AM
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Yeah, try a third chainring-- you will wish you did during your trip. You might try a 1.5 mm spacer with your current BB before getting a new one.
05-01-08, 07:48 AM
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If you have the pre-built Cross Check, your crankset will accept a third chainring. Then you will just need a wider bottom bracket and need to adjust the derailer. I toured on mine with the compact double crank and an 11-32 cassette, but there aren't any hills in Texas.
