max1391401

We're riding a Cannodale RT-3000, with 9 speed ultegra 6500 series shifters, and a XT rear dérailleur. We have decided 11-32 will be the best option, however we are stuck as what cassette and chain to buy.

Obviously, being for a tandem, it needs to be strong and ideally hard wearing. We've tried to read reviews for advice but they're all conflicting and make us more confused. Being in New Zealand it isn't easy to get everything at an affordable price, so I've listed some options we have considered and their price in New Zealand dollars. I'm a student so don't have too much money to throw around. I just want the longest life per dollar out of the chain and cassette.


XTR 7701 Chain = $50
LX HG-73 Chain = $30
SRAM PC-991 Chain = $55
SRAM PC-971 Chain = $35


Deore XT Cassette (CS-M770) = $120
Saint/LX/SLX Cassette (CS-HG80) = $65
Deore 9 Speed Cassette (CS-HG61) = $50
SRAM PG-980 9 Speed Cassette = $ 80

Deore XT Cassette (CS-M770) + XTR 7701 Chain Combo = $169 shipped, so like $10 cheaper

Thanks for looking, Your opinion and experience is greatly appreciated.

rdtompki

We've used both a Deore XY 11-34 and SRAM PG-980 11-32 on our tandem. Both have shifted without problem when adjusted correctly. We're current running a Dura Ace 9-spd chain, but this was an emergency purchase. Our previous chain was a SRAM, model unknown, and our tandem-only LBS (Crank-2) doesn't believe that expensive chains provide good value in our circumstance. I'll probably stick with Shimano chains since we can't buy a single chain long enough for our daVinci and I'd rather not have multiple quick links in the chain. BTW, I may have thought the DA chain offered improved shifting performance over the SRAM, but when you've paid retail for two DA chains you've got to believe you gained something.

WebsterBikeMan

Chain: I have only limited experience, but asked a similar question. In fact I surveyed what people were using for chains and the mileage they were getting out of them. The best summary I could come up with was that there wasn't a whole lot of signal in the noise. Some chains run quieter, and feel smoother.

The most important factor in chain life is how clean you keep it. The biggest factor in chain wear is grit in the chain. Fenders help. As does frequent cleaning, if you ride in rain or where dust will be a factor. I don't necessarily mean taking it off to clean, but at least lubricating it and wiping it.

As I share your interest in longevity I was disappointed not to be able to select a chain based on its having a longer lifetime ahead of it.

Someone else will have to pipe up wrt Cassettes. I've never needed to replace one (freewheel yes, cassette, no). The main thing is to measure the chain and replace it soon enough that you don't need to replace both.

PMK

SRAM 970 road rear set, (12/26 for us), PC991 chain, Race Face chainrings

Replaced the chain today, 3300 miles of use. Find out later if it skips but there was no visible wear to anything but the chain. I picked up a new rear set and stainless chainring just in case but doubt it needs it.

Both chain are removed, solvent washed, dried, reinstalled and lubed about every 300 miles.

PK

jnbrown

There are many M770 cassettes on ebay. Most are 11-34 but some 11-32.
Shipping to NZ might be expensive though.

swc7916

I get SRAM PG-970 11-32 cassettes from eBay for $29.95 shipping included: https://cgi.ebay.com/SRAM-9-Speed-PG-...item563cf23f76

SRAM PC-951 chains are about $20 or so.