I have a Genesis CdF with a compact chainset 50/34 and the cassette is 11-30. My problem is that I am old, weak and battling to get anywhere near spinning up steep hills. Instead I am straining and wheezing up at 2-5mph – not a pretty sight.
My first thought was to change the rear cassette to HG61 which offers 11-32, 11-34 or 12-36. I wasn’t sure if the rear mech could cope with 12-36 and would I get a big enough boost in the low gears.
My next thought was a triple chainset FC3503 which is 50/39/30.
I have just visited my two favourite LBS to discuss the problem and both agreed the triple was a better option but they varied completely on what needed to be done:
LBS1 said new shifter, new front mech, new chain and the triple.
LBS2 said new bottom bracket and the triple; everything else would be fine.
Can anyone say which option is correct and any other thoughts are most welcome.
My first thought was to change the rear cassette to HG61 which offers 11-32, 11-34 or 12-36. I wasn’t sure if the rear mech could cope with 12-36 and would I get a big enough boost in the low gears.
My next thought was a triple chainset FC3503 which is 50/39/30.
I have just visited my two favourite LBS to discuss the problem and both agreed the triple was a better option but they varied completely on what needed to be done:
LBS1 said new shifter, new front mech, new chain and the triple.
LBS2 said new bottom bracket and the triple; everything else would be fine.
Can anyone say which option is correct and any other thoughts are most welcome.