Derailleur adjustment with compact crank

[HillSlugger]

I bought a used bike and switched it from a standard crank to a compact crank but I'm having a devil of a time getting the front derailleur properly adjusted. I'm constantly dropping the chain to the outside when I shift from small to large. If I back off the limit I can't get onto the large ring!

Is there an Ultegra level derailleur designed to work with a 50/34 crank?

I love my bike but I was so frustrated today I was ready to throw it into a ditch! Please help me preserve this love affair!

[Becky]

I'm running a similar set up, and recall that it was a bit fickle to set up. IME, FDs on compacts seem to be more touchy about cable tension, even if the limit screws are correct.

Have you lowered the FD to compensate for the smaller outer ring? What FD are you using now?

Good luck, and don't give up- it will be worth it in the end!

[HillSlugger]

I'm running a similar set up, and recall that it was a bit fickle to set up. IME, FDs on compacts seem to be more touchy about cable tension, even if the limit screws are correct.

Have you lowered the FD to compensate for the smaller outer ring? What FD are you using now?

Good luck, and don't give up- it will be worth it in the end!

It's currently got an Ultegra FD (not sure of model). Yes, I lowered it when I first made the switch and I monkey with it again when trying to get it better adjusted. It worked flawlessly last weekend; this weekend I was ready to trash it. I can't help but think it would be working better if the curve of the FD were better matched to the curve of the large ring but I can't seem to find something like this.

[7rider]

I'm not sure about Ultegra, but I know Dura Ace can. If DA can, I would presume Ultegra can.
What kind of crankset do you have?
I have a FSA compact on the Axiom with a DA FD, and I was constantly throwing the chain off the crank. The mechanic at the LBS, who spent lots of time adjusting it, attributes it to USER ERROR! Yes, you MUST be very careful about where your chain is on the cassette (mid cassette is best) and not heave the shifter too much. Just a soft touch. It took me a while to learn the technique. I am really good with the user error problems!
That said...
My ID8 has a Shimano Ultegra compact crankset and Shimano FD (also DA) and I have had no trouble whatsoever with throwing the chain.

[HillSlugger]

Last week I was able to shift it without thinking about it; today I had to be so careful my shifts were taking forever!

[HillSlugger]

I want to race on this bike in just a few weeks and I want to feel confident that when I shift I won't end up on the side of the road fixing my chain!