Record Cassette

Unfortunately no, you can't muck around with the individual sprokets cos all the sprokets are in a particular "timed" formation to allow smooth shifts.

Generally a 13 will be about as big as someone can handle on the flat with a 53 chainring (unless you've got a wicked tail wind) unless you race regularly. But then if you raced, you probably wouldn't be using a 29 sproket would you?

I can tell you that as a club A grader I don't make a great deal of use out of the 11 at all unless in an all out sprint. I'll be getting a 52 chainring soon in an effort to make use of all of my gears more often.

If you wanted the 12 or 11 you could get a 25-12 or 23-11. That would also force you to get stronger on the climbs.

Quoted post said:

Originally posted by idb
Hi. I just ordered a 13/29 Cassette as part of my 2004 group. This is of course great for hill climbing, but I am a bit worried that the lack of 12 or 11 chain rings will slow me down on flat terrain. Is it possible to take the 13/29 cassette and replace the 13 ring with a smaller one? Many thanks in advance. Danny

I agree w/ the comment. A 13 x 53 is just about what any fit cyclist can push and maintain on a flat before lactic acid slows one down. Pushing that gear at a cadence of about 60 will already take you beyond 50kph.

I have a 13-26, 39-53 on my Wilier (Veloce) and I find I climb well and have good speed on the flats. On downhills I stop peddling around 50-60kph but after that I am just hanging on for dear life.