Upgrading drivetrain

[TomSH27]

Ok, I think I have got my head around gear inches and gear patterns (all hail Frank Berto!), my bike is coming with a nine speed drivetrain (Sora) complete with a 50/34 chainwheel and 12-27 freewheel, this gives me a high of 116 and low of 35 inches. This is what I believe the techies refer to as an Alpine set up suitable for novices and unfit/older riders because it's easy. I'm only really used to old 10spd's with friction shifters so on a test ride this was like manna from heaven to me, if I wanted to upgrade in six months and put a slightly more sporty gear pattern on the bike could I just change the cassette or would the derailleur struggle?

 

[Cycleops]

I would say it is quite sporty as it is now! Wouldn't classify it as an "Alpine"set up. I think you need to suck it and see.

 

[raleighnut]

It would certainly take a "tighter" cluster like a 11-23 easily.

 

[TomSH27]

I guess I'm comparing it to what what Frank Berto refers to as Alpine, perhaps this is a flawed comparison as when he was writing the predominant set up was still 10 speeds with down tube shifters.

 

[TomSH27]

I'll definitely give it a few months and see how it, and more accurately, I perform!

 

[Fab Foodie]

I would say it is quite sporty as it is now! Wouldn't classify it as an "Alpine"set up. I think you need to suck it and see.

Agreed. Unless you live in the Fens no need to change - your set-up should be fine for Cumbria!

 

[TomSH27]

I'm not short of hills that's for sure, I can't wait to try a few descents!

 

[Cycleops]

I guess I'm comparing it to what what Frank Berto refers to as Alpine, perhaps this is a flawed comparison as when he was writing the predominant set up was still 10 speeds with down tube shifters.

Are Frank Berto's thigh muscles anything like this?

 

[KneesUp]

I'm not short of hills that's for sure, I can't wait to try a few descents!

I've just finished my 'bitsa' bike (made from bits of this and bits of that) It has gears from 96" to 19", which I thought even I'd find a bit low. Admittedly my test ride took in hills I'd avoid on my other bike, and I got up them - but I used the 19" on one of them. I'm sticking with this gearing because I'd rather be able to ride up any hill at the expense of not being able to pedal fast enough on the way down. I'd definitely suck it and see before changing anything.

 

[TomSH27]

Are Frank Berto's thigh muscles anything like this?

View attachment 51210

the one on the right reminds me of my wife!

 

[TomSH27]

All good advice for a newbie (I hate that term), I'll take it on board.