Originally Posted by
trustnoone
Good day,
I have a 1992 Specialized Allez with a 7 sp 105 hub. Does anyone know if this is an easy conversion to an 8 sp? I assume a 9+ will need a new hub if not a new frame.
Thanks,
M
First, is the 7-speed in the back a freewheel or cassette?
See here for difference:
http://sheldonbrown.com/gloss_ca-g.html#cassette
If it is a cassette and there is a 4.5 mm spacer behind the cogs, there's a good chance the hub can be used for an 8, 9 or 10-speed cassette. If not, you'll need a new hub (though maybe you can just change out the freehub mechanism???) as well as cassette.
Or, you can try this (look toward the borrom for "8 Of 9 On 7"):
http://sheldonbrown.com/k7.html
If you go the conventional route and use an 8, 9 or 10-speed cassette, make sure your frame can handle it. It must be either 1) 130 mm spaced between rear dropouts or 2) Steel and it can be strtched (do not stretch other materials).
A lot of this info is on SheldonBrown.com, take a look.
If you can use your old hub, all you need is: shifters, cassette, chain and likely a new front derailleur.