Cross Check Build Component Options?

[Tiddle]

Ok, so I've spent some quality time with Sheldon's gear calculator and my spreadsheet ... and the results are in on my gearing options;

Current bike (Trek 7.3): Triple 28-38-48 with 11-32 = Gain Ratio 1.8 / Gear Inches 23.6

SRAM APEX Group: Compact double 34-50 with 11-32 = Ratio 2.1 / Gear inches 28.7

Ultegra 6700: Triple 30-39-52 with 11-28 Cassette = Ratio 2.2 / Inches 28.7

So I guess I'll lose the bottom 2 gears from my current set up (bad news in the Alps) however, DH reakons the more agressive position on the new bike and a better pair of shoes will make a noticable difference.

(Plus there will be 2 harder gears for me to build some muscles with )

Now I'm leaning towards Ultegra 6700 because the shifters are small enough. I tried the Campy's and although I really liked the comfort of the hoods, I just couldn't stretch to the thumb button.

I've read the old thread on small hand shifters, the newer Ultegra (not mentioned there) is apparently more ergo than the small hand Shimano ST-700s... has anyone tried both?

[smaryka]

A bit late to the thread (new to the forum), but how did you get on with your Cross Check? Did you look at SRAM brifters at all, they are apparently better for smaller hands?

Fwiw, I have older 10-speed Ultegra on my road bikes and have no problem with my short fingers, though they are mounted quite low on the bars so I can reach them better when in the drops. Specialized sells some adapters/shorteners as well that come standard on their small WSD bikes I believe -- maybe look into those?

Mind if I ask what your measurements are? (inseam, reach etc.) How do you find the Cross Check? I'm considering the 42cm as a frame upgrade that I will build up myself with various bits and pieces. Came very close to a Kona Jake but even the 47cm frame is too big I think. Redlines, Ridleys, Specialized, etc. all a bit too much standover.

[DebW]

I've got an Ultegra triple and recently changed the 30T inner sprocket for a 26T Sugino ring. The spacing was a little different (inner ring sat closer to the middle ring) but it works fine after a derailleur adjustment. The smaller ring is a good option for loaded touring.

[divingbiker]

The smaller ring is a good option for loaded touring.

Hijack: got a tour planned, Deb?

[DebW]

Hijack: got a tour planned, Deb?

Right now just a 60 mile ride to and from a weekend event for Memorial Day. Hmmm, should we start planning something? When do you get the custom bike?

[divingbiker]

Right now just a 60 mile ride to and from a weekend event for Memorial Day. Hmmm, should we start planning something? When do you get the custom bike?

not sure yet. He seems to be having trouble focusing on nailing down the mixte frame design.

I'm up for a tour later this year or next.