Chainring/F.Derailluer question

[benb]

Does anyone have any experience switching from 53/39 rings to 52/36?

I have only run 53/39 and 50/34. I am just curious if switching from 53/39 -> 52/36 is more seamless than going all the way down to 50/34, especially if it doesn't require a new front derailleur.

I've got the bug to try some shorter cranks right now, and one of my bikes has recalled Shimano cranks on it so that's a good candidate. What I am noticing is that anything new I buy I have a much smaller chance of finding the 53/39 rings in the newer group sets. It seems like it's easier to find in D/A but I have Ultegra on that bike.

It seems like switching down to 52/36 would make sense with going to a shorter crank anyway.

[gbcoupe]

You'll be good with the 52/36. 50/34 was a little too big a change for me. For hilly rides, I use a 52/34 with a chain catcher. I do slightly prefer the 53 on flat rides, which is pretty much everything around here.

[benb]

I'm mostly just concerned about need to adjust the derailleur (totally fine) or replace the derailleur (less desirable).

I am kind of inclined to just stick to 53/39 so it's just a dead simple drop-in. I am kind of stuck around where I live these days and definitely don't need smaller gears and most of the stuff says going to a 172.5 or 170 crank is going to be like a 1 tooth difference.

I have a bike with a 50/34 and that is/was just annoying on pavement around here, it's much lower gearing than I need, though just right on dirt/gravel.

It just seems like 53/39 is critically endangered, but at least on my bike (mechanical) 53/39 just shifts so nicely and I love the smaller gap between the chainrings.

My bike has as 53/39 specific chain OEM catcher on it. I think I have the 50/34 OEM one in my toolbox but might have lost it, but could probably get another one. But I bet there isn't a 52/36 one. It might not matter anyway, other than when the bike was brand new and wasn't dialed in yet it's never dumped the chain.

[gbcoupe]

You'd have to drop the derailleur just a touch. Alternatively, you could go with an aftermarket 110 53/36 and not have to adjust anything.

[benb]

Thanks if that's all it is than I have a bunch more options.

[oldpotatoe]

Originally Posted by benb

Thanks if that's all it is than I have a bunch more options.

Yup, lower the front der, no need for a new front der.