Max cassette on 2015+ Chorus RD

[TexasJohn]

I’m sure this has been asked before…yes I’m too lazy to search for it…

What is the max cassette size you have run on 2015+ Chorus 11sp without changing to midcage RD? Is 29t really the max?

[Mark McM]

This is really a two part question. The maximum sprocket size depends on the geometry of the derailleur body and the offset of the top pulley. These are the same for both the short and mid cage 2015+ 11spd Campagnolo derailleurs. Therefore both the short and mid cage 2015+ derailleurs have the ability to physically clear a 32T sprocket, and probably a 34T also, depending on hanger length.

BUT,

The short cage has less chain wrap capacity, so if you paired a cassette with a 32T sprocket with a wide range 2x crank, the short cage derailleur may not have enough capacity, and the cage may be over-stretched in the big-big combination. I have a bike with a 2015+ Chorus 11spd derailleur and a 50/34 crankset. I just tried fitting a 11/32 cassette. The top pulley clears the 32T sprocket just fine in the small chainring. But when shifted to the big chainring, the cage is extended out so far that the bottom run of chain is nearly straight. I wouldn not be comfortable using this set up, and if I wanted to use this gear combination I would swap to a mid cage derailleur.

So the answer to your question really depends on the chainring differential.


If it helps any, it is easy to swap cages on Campagnolo derailleurs, and Record, Chorus and Potenza 2015+ 11spd derailleurs all use the same mid cage (RD-RE102M).

[TexasJohn]

Perfect Mark! Thanks for the information. Extremely helpful.

[skiezo]

I am running a 50/34 and MC RD and have an 11/30 on the rear with no issues.
I would refer to the above answer tho.

[TexasJohn]

I am running a 50/34 and MC RD and have an 11/30 on the rear with no issues.
I would refer to the above answer tho.

Thanks!

[R3awak3n]

My experience with a short cage is that a 32t works but its not great. 30 works fine.

With a mid cage derailleur I have fit 34 and works perfectly