Coast to Coast: gearing and brakes

[Cyclesome]

Wnyrider, Are you going to buy a new bike for the coast to coast? I love Specialized Rubys and the 2016 models are still doubles but have 11/32 instead of 12/27, better gearing for hills.

[rebeccaC]

Found that a couple women had success using a sram 12-36t cassette with a new/different derailleur. New chain was added to their setups too.

For 10-speed Shimano road groups you can substitute a 9-speed mountain rear derailleur. That will handle a 10 speed 11-32 or 11-34 cassette perfectly and even an 11-36 cassette with a little extra b-tension. I have a friend that uses 10 speed DuraAce shifters and compact crank with a 9 speed XT long cage derailleur and a 11-34 cassette in the santa monica mountains. You'll need a good mechanic to set it up.

cyclesome....yes an 11-32 will help....also, you have a year to improve your climbing ability, skills, breathing technique etc so think about that too. That ride sounds like a awesome bicycle adventure