Backstory: Snapped a RD hangar. Damaged RD. Replaced RD with same short-cage 105 RD that I had for my 11-28t cassette, and also replaced the chain. Recently moved and the hills are big where I live now so now I’d like to replace my cassette with some easier gears.
I’m going to replace my new 105 r7000 SS (that I just bought and installed) with the 105 r7000 GS, so I can use it on this new 11-34t cassette I want to buy. Do I need to add or remove links in order to fit the larger cogs now? The chain I fitted had 126 links, and I kept the ones that I removed just incase I needed them in the future.
TIA😎
by withmahdeeick
3 Comments
You can’t refit the links you removed from the chain before you used it. You could theoretically do it with another masterlink but that’s super janky and probably not safe to ride as part of your chain will be more worn than another. You’re going to need a new chain.
IMO yes you need a new chain length. If you have Shimano pins then you “could” add links, I wouldn’t add links with quick links though.
If you wanna measure how close your current chain length is then put the chain on the 34t and your crank. The chain should then touch and there should be 3/5 additional links for play.
Get a new chain if you don’t have one that meets the rull. Shift big in front and back. Pull chain so that the rear derailleur extends to it’s fullest. Add a link or two. to that length .