Subject: Re: triple chainrings Posted by: the other Jim on December 14, 2000 at 20:48:26: In Reply to: triple chainrings posted by jim on December 14, 2000 at 18:47:01:

Message: >Does anyone know if I can use a triple chainring crankset with older Shimano( circa '96) 600 STI unit? The lowest inner chainring I can use with same series 600/Ultegra crankset is 38 and I am hoping for a little more range as it's a commuting set-up. Any suggestions out there for cranksets/rings? I will probably use a front touring shifter if the STI unit won't work.....................................................................An 8 speed STI shifter for double crankset will not shift a triple,you would have to have a triple specific 105 shifter..The 7 speed RSX units would shift either a double or triple, and the 9 speed STI with the exception of dura ace will shift doubles or triples,.In addition to the triple crankset,you will probably need a BB with longer spindle,although your ultegra BB is often long enough to work with many triples,such as the 8 speed shimano 105 unit,and also a triple front derailer. you can use your short cage rear derailer, but chain wrap capacity limitation will prevent using the 3 or 4 smallest cogs when in thhe small chainring.Have you considered a 38 tooth front with a max cog of 28 or 30 in the rear,which your ultegra derailer will probably handle? Also consider a crankset with 110 bolt circle diameter so you can use smaller double rings. Lots of ways to get lower gearing without going to triple.