Originally Posted by
Srix9
Ah, ok. thanks very much! So if I understand correctly, I could pick up a new cassette and it doesn't matter if it is a 12-25t or 12-26t or 11-34t (or anything else, although I know this will affect the gearing) and then adjust the new chain to properly fit the new cassette.
As for the crankset, it looks like some of the teeth are chipped. Maybe I just need to replace the chainrings on it?
as far as the cassette goes yes you can pick anything but you have a few limitaions. first would be that you need to buy a shimano or sram cassette because of the spacing between the cogs. second would be how low of a gear your RD will take. most short cage RD will handle a 28t but you would need a mid cage to go much lower. last you need to make sure it is the same speed as your current cassette (ie 9sp).
you can get any chain you want as long as it is a 9sp chain. others will work but 9sp is ideal. KMC makes a really good cheap 9sp chain the X9.93. i would suggest taking it to the bike shop to install both the chain and cassette if you have never done it before and ask them to show you how to do it the correct way.
as far as your chainrings go they should be fine. FSA does have some teeth that look "chipped" or not sharp on there large chainring so thats normal. if they are indeed broken off then yes replace them. you can ask the bike shop to inspect them when they install you cassette and chain. the only thing you need to look for there would be to get the right BCD. meaning 130mm for a standard crank or 110mm for a compact.
link to chain
http://bikeisland.com/cgi-bin/BKTK_S...ls&ProdID=1942
link to cassette
http://bikeisland.com/cgi-bin/BKTK_S...ils&ProdID=102