Small Chainring

A 13-25 cassette will make a bigger difference than just a 39.
But, changing both the cassette to 12-25 and the small chainring to 39 tooth would be even better. 🙂

Jab1111 said:

My question is; can I simply change my small ring to a 38 or 39?

yes

Quoted post said:

...Also, if I do change the chainring, can I simply change the chain ring, or do I have to adjust my derailer, or shifter in any way?

a little adjustment may be necessary

Quoted post said:

If I do, will this make a difference with the 11-23 cassette that I am riding?

nope

gclark8 said:

A 13-25 cassette will make a bigger difference than just a 39.
But, changing both the cassette to 12-25 and the small chainring to 39 tooth would be even better. 🙂

Yes he can but it will cost more than just chainging the chainring. Also the cassette change may require a change in chain which adds to the overall cost.

The best solution would still be to change chainring and cassette... but if money is a problem then go ahead and change the chainring... and start saving for a cassette with a 25 cog...

Thanks for the info guys. I guess I will have to invest in a new chain ring and cassette.

sheldonbrown.comgearsOpen ↗

Personally, if it were me, I just go with the casette first. They are very easy to change on your own. Since you are on a budget, You can even just buy the cogs you need and custom build one to suit your needs. You might be able to get away with buying just 1 or 2 rear cog(s) and switching them out instead. Check with the LBS. Just a thought....

L

Jab1111 said:

Hello,

I'm pretty new too cycling and need some advice on a technical issue.

I recently moved from a very flat city where I have been riding a Campy record 11-23 cassette and 53-42 chainrings. I moved to a very hilly city where I have encountered that I am at a huge disadvantage when it comes to climbing. On a 50-60 mile ride I have encountered that after 30-40 miles my legs are shot, and I can't climb any longer. I use a lot of power during the first 30-40 miles and then my legs simply give out, I have to resort to standing on every climb to make it the rest of the ride.

My question is; can I simply change my small ring to a 38 or 39? If I do, will this make a difference with the 11-23 cassette that I am riding? Also, if I do change the chainring, can I simply change the chain ring, or do I have to adjust my derailer, or shifter in any way?

I have heard a lot of talk about compact cranks, but I am broke recent college grad, so I can only afford a chain ring for now.

I appreciate any advice you guys have for me.

Thanks.

When I moved from the flat midwest to Seattle, I had the same gearing issue. Going with a 39T chainring does help some. I am running a 39/23 as my low and it is certainly better than 42, although I could use the 25 sometimes. On my commuter bike, I went to a triple with 52-42-30 with a Veloce 13-26 9s cassette. I rarely use the 30, but it is nice to have it there when I am carrying a load or hit a really big hill. The thing that has helped the most since I moved to the hills is that my legs are stronger after a 18 months of hill riding.