Simple question that I think will work, just want a second opinions.
I have a almost new Road Bike that is all 8 speed shimano. I'm going to replace the standard double crank ( 53 /39 ) it came with with a Compact double to aid in climbing, and because I'm nearing 50 and the knees need a little help now.
My question is: Will a new Compact crank that says 9 speed work with my 8 speed chain?
The chain is not that old, and It was checked with a chain wear tool and it shows still good, and everything else is still like new.
BTW. A less expensive alternative may-or-may-not be to use an 8-speed Shimano-or-SRAM MTB Cassette (e.g., 11-32, or 11-34 ...) + an 8-/9-speed Shimano MTB rear derailleur.
Just be sure the cogs are ramped ...
I think that all 8-speed SRAM Cassettes which you encounter will have ramped cogs
there may be some older (pre-1998) 8-speed Shimano Cassettes out there which will probably not have ramped cogs
