Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 12,286
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From: Lake Geneva, WI
Bikes: Ridley Helium SLX, Canyon Endurance SL, De Rosa Professional, Eddy Merckx Corsa Extra, Schwinn Paramount (1 painted, 1 chrome), Peugeot PX10, Serotta Nova X, Simoncini Cyclocross Special, Raleigh Roker, Pedal Force CG2 and CX2
Originally Posted by
jrhii
How important is chain speed designation with its compatibility to chain sizes. I have an 8 speed drivetrain and may want/need to get a new crankset, move to a compact possibly, and everything i look at lists 9 or 10 speed it seems. I want to know if I need to get an 8 speed, and what the difference is exactly (in regards to chainrings)
I want to keep it at 8 speed because I can still friction shift with my DT shifters (they are only indexed to 7) and because 8 speed to cheap to maintain and replace.
There are small changes in the chainring spacing with 8 speed and 9 or 10 speed cranksets. Running a 8 speed chain on a 10 speed crank would create shifting and other compatibility issues, the outside width of the chain would be too wide for the narrow spacing of the chainrings.
6, 7 and 8 speed cranksets are interchangeable if a 8-speed chain is used. However, 9-speed cranksets run best with 9-speed chains and 10-speed cranksets need 10-speed chains.
You could use a 9-speed crankset, like this:
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_odkw...0+&_sacat=7294
...and be sure to buy a matching Bottom Bracket.
Just use a 9-speed chain with your 8-speed cassette and derailleurs. It will shift and operate well.
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When I ride my bike I feel free and happy and strong. I'm liberated from the usual nonsense of day to day life. Solid, dependable, silent, my bike is my horse, my fighter jet, my island, my friend. Together we will conquer that hill and thereafter the world.
Last edited by Barrettscv; 06-10-13 at 12:11 PM.