I’ve noticed that some cranks have an indication of their compatability with certain groups. However, how much would running a crank like the Ritchey WCS 110(it is listed as a 9 speed compatable crank) negatively effect the performance of a 10 speed shimano group? And when is Shimano 105 10 speed going to come out?
more than likely the chainring and chain width and rear cassette are the limiting factors. Give it a shot.
It will work, or at least I think it will. I used a Ritchey WCS 135mm crank with 10-speed with no problem. You might, I emphasize might, need a new small chainring but it should work with little trouble.
It is interesting because Ritchey itself doesn’t specify it as a 9 speed crank but some retailers do. I have to imagine it won’t bring my whole bike down in a blaze of glory or anything.
I’ve noticed that the upgrade kits to go to Shimano 10 speeds only include the cassette, chain, rear derailler and shifters; I think existing cranks from 9-speed groups work fine.
A while back, I also noticed that an Ultegra 6600 front hub was listed as “Ulterga 10 Speed”; in what possible way could the front hub be specific to 10 speed? I think the name attached to the parts not included in the upgrade kit is pretty much meaningless.
The Ritchey crank will work fine. I believe 10speed 105 is out in '06 product cycle. Don’t know when you’ll actually be able to get your hands on it.
I’ve noticed that the upgrade kits to go to Shimano 10 speeds only include the cassette, chain, rear derailler and shifters; I think existing cranks from 9-speed groups work fine.
Typically, the chain rings will not have an impact on 10-speed drive train performance but some chain rings like the FSA and Tiso TT specific chain rings (not sure about 9-speed DA TT rings) which are a slight bit wider.
A while back, I also noticed that an Ultegra 6600 front hub was listed as “Ulterga 10 Speed”; in what possible way could the front hub be specific to 10 speed? I think the name attached to the parts not included in the upgrade kit is pretty much meaningless.
It’s not specific to a 10-speed group but it is standard marketing since many of us are simply too anal to use mismatched hubs/wheels.
If you try to use a 9 speed crank with a 10 speed chain and 10 speed rear end it is likely you will have some combination of the following: Poor shift repeatability when going from the small ring up to the big ring, especially with STI or Ergopower shift controls. With bar end shifters, it may be slightly better. From the large ring down to the small ring there is often a tendency for the chain to become “stalled” or lodged between the two chainrings. this is due to two factors: The width of the bottom bracket spindle and the width of the chainrings and their proximity to one another. The STI and Ergopower shifters for 10 speed are designed with shift detents to position the chain at the appropriate interval for 10 speed- 9 speed is slightly wider. The wider 9 speed chainrings tend to eat 10 speed chains for breakfast. Wear is accelerated significantly. If the 10 speed chain is not installed in the “pulling” orientation (read the installation instructions carefully that are included inside the package with Shimano brand chains) the risk of chain breakage is extremely high- almost a certainty.
In general, mixing components is not a good idea. At best, you will have to accept some type of compromise in performance. At worst, it could contribute to a component failure that may result in an accident that could cause injury.
Please be careful with this, and use the web and the manufacturers’ instructions as a resource for correct and safe installation of components.
you are asking good questions though, and that indicates you are thinking- and that is good. Good luck!
Thanks for the response Tom. What I decided to do in the end was just email Ritchey about their 110 cranks, of course I have this wierd feeling in order to sell their product they will tell me to go for it. I just can’t imagine they would bother making a high end crank for 2005 or especially 06 that wasn’t 10 speed compatable. If anyone is curious about Ritchey cranks I can post what they tell me.
Tom,
How about a 10spd Dura Ace crankset to replace a 9spd Durace crankset used w/all 9spd chain and rear? Looking to replace an aging 9spd crankset. Thought I’d go that route until I converted to 10spd.
I’m confused, Tom. I didn’t think the front chainrings were any different from 9sp to 10sp. Are you saying that if I put on a 10 speed rear end that I’ll need to replace my RotorCranks? They’re (RC’s) website doesn’t indicate that they have a special set for 10 speed setups.