I am looking to replace or upgrade the existing chainset that came on my Pinnacle Arkose from a few years ago. Its an FSA Omega Adventure 48-32. Done over 6000km so far and no issues, got it running with an 11-36 cassette for climbing (goes with Threaded Mega Exo 4000 BB).
I'm aware of some users disliking FSA and preferring other models, but they have been fine for me. There does not seem to be many options for 9 speed sub compact cranksets.
I was looking to stick some road tyres on and do more road work/climbs, so emailed FSA about the current 46-30 (and 48-32 models) as the spec says compatible with 10-11 speed, although the 48-32 is fitted to the 2020 9 speed Arkose as well as mine.
https://www.evanscycles.com/pinnacle-arkose-d1-2020-gravel-bike-EV339946
I haven't yet had an answer as to whether they changed the spec/withdrew/replaced it, or whether it may be a marketing ploy to sell their FSA Tempo 9 speed 48-32 chainset which has a heavier square taper BB. I have not found a 9 speed Omega Adventure Chainset online nor do I recall there being one.
Has anyone tried the above '10/11 speed' chainset recently with their 9 speed setup or recently changed to another 10/11 speed crankset with existing 9 speed everything else?
Any thoughts generally 10/11 speed compatibility with 9 speed? I would not be changing anything else unless absolutely necessary.
The other one I am looking at is the Shimano 10 speed GRX 48-31 or 46-30 - I have a Sora R3000 front mech so unsure if I would need the GRX front mech or if that would be compatible either.
Any advice welcome
I just had a reply from windwave sales (FSA re-directed me to them). Here's their reply....
Hi
Thank you for your enquiry.
I’m afraid FSA no longer produce 9 speed chainsets in the aftermarket. Your existing chainset will be an OEM model supplied directly to the bikes manufacturer.
A 9 speed chain will run on a 10/11 chainset - you'll maybe get a little bit more chain 'noise' when crossing from inner ring to small sprockets because the chainrings are a touch closer. GRX chainset would work no problem and you don't have to worry about front mech compatibility - you'll need a new BB as FSA Omega takes their weird 19mm bearing ID.
Spa cycles subcompact comes in any ratios you like. About £80 with square taper bottom bracket
Thanks guys, I'll bear that in mind. Shimano suggest you need their GX Front mech for their chainset but a search on the forums suggests it works fine with other front mechs.