I’m building a CX bike for a friend who is very strong, but I still don’t think that he wants to run the 53/39 combo I currently have available. The crankset is an alloy Record from about 2001-2002 I’m thinking it is 135mm (not sure) Can I replace the 53 outer ring with something smaller? or would I be better off going to a compact setup? I figure I’ll run a 13-26 or even a 13-20 on the back.
I run 12-25 at the back, 38,48 at the front. I use Stronglight 130 BCD chainrings up front.
12-25 and 12-26 in back with a 39 X 46 up front for me. David K
12-25 rear, 38,48 front. Optional you can do a 42 single on the front that will be somewhere in the middle and eliminate the front shifting issues he may have.
I use 12-26 and 39-44 on front
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Go single ring 42t on the front. N-Gear Jump Stop on the inside, chain guard on the outside. If you’re determined to have a double on there go 39-42 or 44.
In any case there’s no need to go compact.
In Belgium the cx-racers use mostly 46/39 front and 12-25 rear, maybe depending on conditions you can change the rear cogs.If very hilly 46/38 and 12/27. But a 53 won’t get very much use offroad i should think…
I also run a 46/38 front with a 12/25, though I rarely use the 46. Most guys that run a single go for a 42 (too much for me though). Usually need to get a compact (110 BCD) for these combos though. I’ve never seen anyone, pro or otherwise with std set of 53/39 road rings at a cross race!