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LX to XT = longer chain?

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Old 08-08-10, 02:55 PM
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LX to XT = longer chain?

Hi,
So I decided to upgrade from a Shimano LX to an XT rear derailleur. First ride was great, but I have since read that I may need to lengthen the chain. Is there an easy way to test for the correct chain length? The derailleurs themselves appear to be the same length, although hard to tell exactly, even when using a tape measure.
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Old 08-08-10, 03:33 PM
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same chain unless your current chain is the wrong length. many articles on the internet on how to size a chain
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Old 08-08-10, 03:40 PM
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Chain length is determined by the sprockets, not really the RD.
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Old 08-08-10, 04:00 PM
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As noted, the rear derailleur has nothing to do with proper chain length. If you chain is sized properly now, changing the derailleur will not have any effect.
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Old 08-08-10, 04:33 PM
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Please post the links where you saw chain length should be different. That would be interesting to see.
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Old 08-08-10, 06:29 PM
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Whoever told you changing derailleurs affects chain length is a a mega ******. End this thread, please.
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Old 08-08-10, 07:29 PM
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chainlength = big front chain ring to largest gear on cassette do not run the chain through the derailleur and add 1-2 links
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Old 08-09-10, 06:35 AM
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Originally Posted by go1dens4
chainlength = big front chain ring to largest gear on cassette do not run the chain through the derailleur and add 1-2 links
Almost, but you add either one inch (2 links) if the ends that come together can be joined, or 3 links if they are the same, since you can't join a pair of inner plates or a pair of outer plates. You would never add just 1 link (1/2 inch).
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