I have recently purchased a new road frame with the intention of swapping
over the parts from my previous frame. The old frame has a 9 spd triple 105
chainset. However, I have been thinking of putting a compact set of cranks
on the new frame.
Do not want the expense of changing STIs but happy to change front
derailleur and would therefore like to stick with 9 spd. (I understand that
the 105 STIs can be used for double as well a triple). However, may
eventually want to change to 10 spd and therefore do not wish to buy a
crankset that would then become redundant.
I have been looking at the FC-R700 but not sure if this will work with 9
spd. Have also looked at FC-R600. Have looked at other makes but not sure
if there is a spacing issue (or is this only a problem at the back?)
I currently have an octalink BB on the old frame. However, I suppose that
this would be too long even if I do find an octalink compact crankset.
I was therefore wondering if someone would be able to suggest a good compact
crank and BB (including what length to use) that will work well with a 9 spd
setup (willing to spend upto £150).
Thanks,
Gordon