I’m considering converting from 2×9 to 1×10. Or possibly 1×11.
I have 26″ wheels, with 22/32 front rings with a bashguard mounted onto a Middleburn square taper 104 bcd crank, 11/32 rear SRAM cassette on a DT 240s hub. Rear mech is a 9 speed Shimano XTR short cage.
So… I know I’ll need to change the rear shifter but can I keep the rear mech? I’m uncertain if the larger cassette will foul it or not, or whether or not its capacity will allow it to deal with the new set up. It’s a lovely mech, it would be a shame to retire it to a different bike.
And what ring/ cassette combination will allow me to match my current ratios. Knees are often reminding me that hills are best ridden down and not up, so the 22X32 or easier equivalent is a must.
Are front rings 9/10/11 speed interchangeable? Thick thin- is it worth it? Do I really need a clutch mech….?
TBH, it is so confusing I have almost given up but the drivetrain is coming to the point where I need to replace chain, rings and cassette so it seems an appropriate moment to convert should it be an advantage to do so.
Your thoughts and advice would be most welcome.