New Cassette = New Chain?

[steveo]

Quick question for the tech/mech folks in here.

I'm currently running Campy 10 with a short cage rear der and a 12-25 cassette and a standard crankset.

I'm probably going to be picking up a 13-29 and a long cage rear der. tomorrow.

In order to make this switch, do I need a new chain? Will I need to add links?

Thanks in advance.

Steve

[Peter B]

You will need a longer chain. I'd go new unless your existing is of known low mileage w/ good care. Basic sizing info is here (http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-help/chain-length-sizing).

[Louis]

I'd also go with a new chain.

There's a bit of a chance that you could live with the same length chain as before without destroying anything, but if you're going to go with a new chain you'll have to shorten it anyway, so you might as well get the length right also.

[steveo]

My current chain is low mileage and in excellent condition (I am the original owner). Would it be possible to just add links?

[David Kirk]

My current chain is low mileage and in excellent condition (I am the original owner). Would it be possible to just add links?

How low is low?

It takes less than one might expect to wear the chain and it won't mesh with a new cassette well.

Dave

[gearguywb]

Replace the chain and keep the old one, along with the old cassette as a matched pair to put back on when opportunity arises.

[godfrey1112000]

Replace the chain and keep the old one, along with the old cassette as a matched pair to put back on when opportunity arises.

agree,

[biker72]

Replace the chain and keep the old one, along with the old cassette as a matched pair to put back on when opportunity arises.
Best plan.

[Ralph]

When you say "long cage", do you really mean long cage or "medium cage"?

You don't need a long cage to go 13-29 with double front. Short or medium OK.

New cassette....I usually use new chain.

[oldpotatoe]

Quick question for the tech/mech folks in here.

I'm currently running Campy 10 with a short cage rear der and a 12-25 cassette and a standard crankset.

I'm probably going to be picking up a 13-29 and a long cage rear der. tomorrow.

In order to make this switch, do I need a new chain? Will I need to add links?

Thanks in advance.

Steve

Probably and for info, don't really 'need' a medium or long cage rear derailleur.

[norcalbiker]

When you say "long cage", do you really mean long cage or "medium cage"?

You don't need a long cage to go 13-29 with double front. Short or medium OK.

New cassette....I usually use new chain.


Agree!!!

I have a compact with short cage and my 13/29 works like a chram.

[steveo]

So, in theory, I should just be able to throw the 13-29 on, correct?

Considering my current chain length was set for a 12-25, the chain calculator says they both require 54 links.

[Mark McM]

So, in theory, I should just be able to throw the 13-29 on, correct?

Possibly. A 4 tooth difference in maximum sprocket size would require at most 2 more chain links (the minimum increment in chain sizing). If the chain was originally sized to be as short as could possibly be used for the 25 tooth sprocket, then you'd need a longer chain. But the usual chain sizing methods select chain length based on not having too much slack on the smallest sprocket size, and so tend to have extra chain available for the larger sprockets, so it is likely that you'll be fine with your current chain.

Keep in mind that you may have to adjust the derailleur spring tension so that it can accomodate the larger sprocket.

[steveo]

Thanks everyone for the help. :beer:

I'll report back once everything is done.

-Steve

[Germany_chris]

I traded 11-25 for a 13-29 and didn't add change/lengthen the chain..

[tooonee]

Definitely go with a new chain. I would go with aboves answer of keeping the old cassette and chain for a matched set.