Originally Posted by
PoManBiker
The cassette does not look like it comes off with a "normal" cassette tool like I have played with on my MTB and I am wondering if I need to buy a whole new rim or should I look for a different crank?
Your bike most likely has a freewheel instead of a cassette. You can read about the difference here:
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/free-k7.html.
They can be changed, but it requires a special tool or taking it to the shop. Depending on your crank set (does it have 5 allen bolts?) and availability of used parts, it can be much easier/cheaper to put on a chain ring that is a tooth or two smaller.
Originally Posted by
PoManBiker
The only problem is I live in a pretty hilly area and the gearing on this bike is much higher than I think would be ideal. (I can keep pace with my carbon riding buddies except up bigger hills) What is the best route to change this?
A couple other options are to get faster or find slower friends
