Originally Posted by
pumpkinhed
With this new (to me, I got it used) bike I feel the parts build quality is cheaper and I'm not getting any feedback from mechanics who have looked at it in regards to shifting issues that some parameter is out of spec. All I can chalk it up to is cheap parts.
What shifting issues are you experiencing? Front or back or both? Hard to diagnose without lots more details. The "cheapest" (perception, not actual cost) component in the drive train is the
Shimano FC-M171 48/38/28 crankset, which has riveted chain rings which flex under load. This is the prime mechanical reason for an upgrade or 1X conversion.
Originally Posted by
pumpkinhed
My expectation is that I should be able to run through all gears without issue.
When my hybrid was 3x8, each chain ring can really only "use" 6 rear cogs, as follows:
when chain is on small chain ring, the 6 physically largest cogs, i.e., 1st through 6th gears;
when chain is on middle chain ring, the middle 6 largest cogs, i.e., 2nd through 7th gears;
when chain is on large chain ring, the 6 physically smallest cogs, i.e., 3rd through 8th gears,
which I understand is to be expected due to the limits of cross-chaining. Deviating from the above use led to noisy chain, regardless of adjustment of front and/or rear derailleurs.
After going to 1x8, no more FD to rub against, so 2nd to 8th gears are smooth, but 1st gear is still a little noisy due to cross-chaining. Again, this is to be expected.