smaller ring for touring??

[SadieKate]

Well, an XT rear cassette is about $75 and a derailler is $65-70. That would leave $50 for labor and a new cable. If it is a local shop and good labor, Bubba just said "bite the bullet." We do our own wrenching so we don't know labor costs much. You can talk Bubba's head off in a few hours.

[cindysue]

looks like I will also have to get a new chain ($40 for the XT) - bummer since I just bought one (now the wrong size of course) less than 500 miles ago.

So, about $250. I just made the appointment for next Thursday - bike to work day - how appropriate!

see ya at 4:00pm. All that hard work this afternoon with the trailer on my old cassette will make the $250 investment next week much more palatable.

[emily_in_nc]

Cindy ~ I think you are doing the right thing! My husband and I took a tour last fall (NY state), and I needed every bit of my XT cogset in the rear (I had front/back racks and panniers). Depends on the amount of climbing of course (we were in the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks -> LOTS of climbs), but it never hurts to be over-prepared!

Emily

[cindysue]

Cindy ~ I think you are doing the right thing! My husband and I took a tour last fall (NY state), and I needed every bit of my XT cogset in the rear (I had front/back racks and panniers). Depends on the amount of climbing of course (we were in the Finger Lakes and Adirondacks -> LOTS of climbs), but it never hurts to be over-prepared!
Emily

thanks Emily - I'll be sure to post a ride report when I get back (June 13-20). I can't wait to try out my new set-up!