Originally Posted by
BeeRich
Hi folks.
I'm wanting to replace my gear setup. I have indexed 3 front / 7 rear Deore XT grouppo, and I'm finding the front simply doesn't need to be there. Current setup is 23-46 front (3 rings) and 12-21 rear. I want to replace this with a fixed front 34 tooth, and a 11-34 rear, 7 gear cassette (Shimano).
Anything I should worry about? I can still use my front setup on the middle ring setup, but I'm hoping there's no issue with just ordering a 7-speed rear with my calculations.
Any insight/advice appreciated. Cheers
I don't see a problem with what you're proposing. You did your research and figured that you don't need as much high end, and you can get a 34 tooth cog for low end.
You may want to add a chain-keeper or use a narrow-wide tooth chainring to help retain the chain in the extremes on your cassette. You can probably also use the front derailleur to keep the chain from dropping, rather than deleting it, or buying a retainer.
Check your rear derailleur's max teeth to make sure you have enough room for a 34t cog.