Chain Length Question
#1
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Chain Length Question
I'm considering switching from a standard crank (52-36) to a compact (50-32) on one of my bikes. I'm assuming that a slightly shorter chain would be in order. Am I correct? Also Would the front derailleur have to be adjusted?
Thanks
Thanks
#2
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Since you are changing cranksets, I'd resize the chain just on general principles. It doesn't take very much time or effort to do. I use the big/big method. Run the chain around the biggest front chainring and the biggest rear cog bypassing the rear derailleur. Figure out the shortest place that you could connect the chain. Now add 2 links (1 inch) onto that. That s the shortest chain that you can safely use with that gear combination. If it was my bike, I'd start a brand new chain with the new chain rings.
Going from a 52 to a 50 isn't much of a big ring change. Your front derailleur might work just fine as it is. If it was my bike, however, I'd lower the derailleur a skosh to match the new smaller ring.
Going from a 52 to a 50 isn't much of a big ring change. Your front derailleur might work just fine as it is. If it was my bike, however, I'd lower the derailleur a skosh to match the new smaller ring.
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#3
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Are you actually running 50/32 or 50/34? Depends how your chain was originally sized, I prefer using the small/small sizing method so as long as it will run the 34x11 combo without slack I'd leave it
#4
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Going from a 52T to a 50T will, assuming the chain is now sized correctly, allow you to shorten the chain by a one "half-link" or 1/2" as you only change it by 1/2 of the tooth count difference. Since chains have to be shortened or lengthened in full-link (1") increments, you can't change it.
Last edited by HillRider; 04-07-16 at 07:54 PM.
#5
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Since you are changing cranksets, I'd resize the chain just on general principles. It doesn't take very much time or effort to do. I use the big/big method. Run the chain around the biggest front chainring and the biggest rear cog bypassing the rear derailleur. Figure out the shortest place that you could connect the chain. Now add 2 links (1 inch) onto that. That s the shortest chain that you can safely use with that gear combination. If it was my bike, I'd start a brand new chain with the new chain rings.
Going from a 52 to a 50 isn't much of a big ring change. Your front derailleur might work just fine as it is. If it was my bike, however, I'd lower the derailleur a skosh to match the new smaller ring.
Going from a 52 to a 50 isn't much of a big ring change. Your front derailleur might work just fine as it is. If it was my bike, however, I'd lower the derailleur a skosh to match the new smaller ring.
That's what I was thinking as far as the front derailleur is concerned.
Thanks
#7
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I'll go with the chain at the current length and see how it works out. That's actually what I was hoping to find out. Easier to leave it alone.
#8
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#9
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If there is too much slack, the upper jockey wheel rubs the chain. Yes I have seen this out in the real world!
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#11
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#12
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