questions about switching to a compact crankset

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2011-08-03 9:13 PM

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Subject: questions about switching to a compact crankset

I've thought about this off and on for awhile because my first HIM is coming up in Sept. and it's a very hilly bike course. The threads in the main forum have me thinking more about it at the moment. I'm trying to understand everything, but I'm still not sure what exactly would be compatible with my bike and what wouldn't.

I have a 2011 felt b16 with a FSA Gossamer 53/39 w/integrated MegaExo BB. The cassette is a 10sp 12/25

I guess I'm looking at sticking with FSA for the compact, or switching to Shimano (to match the other Shimano components), and Shimano would be a new BB as well?

Any recommendations b/n the two? Anything else I need to think about when replacing the crankset?

2011-08-04 1:24 AM
in reply to: #3628120


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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset
Have you thought about switching your cassette first?  Maybe go up to a 28 in the back.
2011-08-04 5:44 AM
in reply to: #3628120

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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset
Personally, I think that the Shimano rings do shift better than the FSA rings... not night and day difference, but noticeable.

In general, most people could actually benefit from using a compact, even on relatively flat courses, allowing a slightly higher cadence.

I would not switch back and forth between a standard and a compact crank though... stick with one and you won't have to have two chains (length will be different between the two) or adjust the front derailleur hight.
2011-08-04 9:21 AM
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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset

I have only ridden compact crankset on my road bike. I like it. I sometimes wish I had something like it on my mountain bike. Where I live it has given me enough to get most everywhere.

2011-08-04 9:36 AM
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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset

rexcoltrain - 2011-08-04 1:24 AM Have you thought about switching your cassette first?  Maybe go up to a 28 in the back.

I just bought an 11-28 cassette for my compact. Seemed like the cheaper and easier choice. Mounting a cassette is easy, changing out the crankset is a lot more work, plus new chain and adjusting everything.

Saw shimano CS-6700 11-28 for $64.99 on Amazon.



Edited by moldoverb 2011-08-04 9:37 AM
2011-08-04 10:02 AM
in reply to: #3628322

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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset

audiojan - 2011-08-04 6:44 AM Personally, I think that the Shimano rings do shift better than the FSA rings... not night and day difference, but noticeable.

I'd second that the Shimano rings shift better. You will have to switch out your chain (or shorten it) and lower your front derailleur but I think the Mega Exo BB is compatible with shimano external BB style cranks. I switched my crankset out with no prior bike mechanic knowledge, it's really easy with the external BB.  Just drop the chain off the crank towards the bike, take the non-drive side arm off and slide the crank out (BB stays on), then do the same in reverse.

I really like the compact gearing, really didn't lose too much top end and the low gears you gain are very useful.

-Dave

2011-08-05 5:16 AM
in reply to: #3628120

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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset
Actually, Shimano is not technically compatible with MegaExo BB's... Shimano is using a straight contact and FSA a tapered contact. Despite that, you can push the axle through and make it work. Just wouldn't recommend this if you intend to remove your crank frequently (like you would with a Quarq for example)
2011-08-05 11:52 AM
in reply to: #3628120

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Subject: RE: questions about switching to a compact crankset

Think I'm going to go with the Ultegra 6750 and get the Shimano BB. I definitely don't plan on swapping between cranks very often, if ever, but the extra cost for the BB is pretty minimal.

 

thanks!

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