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I have a 3x9 that needs replacing due to wear. I know the fashion is for a single chain ring but I think I need the wider range that a 2x will give. I use the bike for general trail riding but also a bit of road bike packing (did the Outer Hebs last year) so I would prefer the broader options a dual set up would give. Current set up is XT which I have been very happy with.
I assume I would need a new cassette (10, 11 speed?) plus 2 new chain rings say 11 and 34...? Plus potentially a new rear shifter and a shorter chain. Is that it?
Does that sound right Are there any standard ratios anyone can recommend or anything different to the above?
Thanks
Any reason not to stick with 9x3? Much cheapness to be found, though availability may've been affected by the recent interest in not being on public transport.
If you're switching to 2 chainrings you may need to do something with your 3x front shifter, some can switch to 2x others cannot.
I think I'd prefer the simplicity of 2x versus a triple. In practice I find I rarely use the big ring so this might be an opportunity to ditch it.
If you are changing everything I'd at least try a 1x. You can always add a stealth granny, or switch the front ring for an expedition. If it really doesn't work out you can add the front mech and shifter. Not much to lose, and, if it works, then a bit to gain. It's not a fashion, its a functional change.
My 9 sp was 2x9 with a 22 and a 36 chainring. A good compromise IMO
I run 2x11 on one bike, 2x9 on others, with 26-36 steel Deore rings and 11-34 cassettes. They all function pretty much the same, can barely notice the difference when riding.
If you're keeping your existing cranks then your existing front derailleur will work fine for a 2x setup. Chain line might not be great but will work.
You could even save a lot of money and go for a 2 x 9 setup making use of your existing rear derailleur and shifters too.
My only bike (out of five) with a front derailleur is my road bike so I'm a definite 1x fanboi but if it's not going to work for you then don't bother.
Have a play with gear calculator to compare between setups - http://gear-calculator.com/ .
Seven years ago I went from 3x9 on a 26" to 1x10 on a 29" and lost a total of 3 ratios, two at the top end and one at the bottom. That was before the current wide range cassettes. Doing the same thing these days I might lose at most one ratio.
Thanks for the advice all. That gear calculator site in particular is excellent!
Always amazes me when people have the time to put something together like that. Now duly bookmarked.