Originally Posted by
Jasper Storm
Through tens of thousands of miles of riding and racing, much of it in the mountains, I have determined that a change from 50/34 to 52/36 will be perfect for me (on 11-25 cassettes.)
My hat of to you, sir! I can't imagine not having a back up granny ring.
As far as chain length goes, as someone said - unless the old one was cut to the smallest possible size (check the big-big combo and see if there's any RD bend left), it will all be fine. Also, if you can avoid ever shifting to big-big combo, it should also be fine, just beware if you're lending the bike to anyone to warn them.