Changing from 11-28 to either 11-32 or 11-34 cassette...

[Mazz]

Is the same gear cable used for both road bikes and MTBs? It's not specific to each, is it?

 

[si_c]

Is the same gear cable used for both road bikes and MTBs? It's not specific to each, is it?

Gear cables are usually interchangeable, brake cables not so much.

 

[Dogtrousers]

Gear cables are usually interchangeable, brake cables not so much.

Generally yes. Although it can vary. I do seem to remember that the fine print of my SRAM Apex shifters specified a marginally skinnier cable than the usual standard for Shimano shifters. Can't remember the actual numbers.

 

[Mazz]

UPDATE: front chainring is 50-34 Tiagra, current rear cassette is 11-28 Tiagra (10 speed).

Replacement cassette is 11-34 Tiagra (10 speed) and I will be replacing the chain at the same time.

QUESTION: Do I need to make the new chain a couple of links longer to account for the largest cog on the back? Thanks

 

[Dogtrousers]

QUESTION: Do I need to make the new chain a couple of links longer to account for the largest cog on the back? Thanks

Yes.

There are ways to measure the correct chain length. Someone with a better memory than me will be along in a bit.

 

[Hacienda71]

Big to big plus 2 full links.

 

[Mazz]

Big to big plus 2 full links.

Are you referring to the total number of teeth on the 2 rings (biggest front plus biggest back) +2?

 

[Dogtrousers]

Big to big plus 2 full links.

I thought it was but I always forget how much to add.

 

[Dogtrousers]

Are you referring to the total number of teeth on the 2 rings (biggest front plus biggest back) +2?

Thread the chain round the big ring and the big sprocket but not thru the mech. See how much chain that needs. Then add 2 full links. Or four half links.

And, if your previous chain length was right that should be 2 full links more than what it was before.

I think