Derailleur cage length affects a bike’s gear range. Short cages are ideal for road racing with limited gears, offering precision. Medium cages offer versatility for varied terrains. Long cages accommodate larger cassettes, making them suitable for mountain biking but heavier. Oversized cages provide improved chain stability for extreme mountain biking but may add weight. Choose based on your riding needs.
Derailleur Cage Length Calculator
Recommended Derailleur Cage Length: N/A
| Cage Length | Suitable Cassette Range | Ideal Use | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short Cage | Up to 28-32T (varies) | Road Racing | Lighter, precise shifting, cleaner look | Limited gear range |
| Medium Cage | 28-34T to 36T (varies) | Versatile | Suitable for varied terrains, mid-weight | Moderate gear range |
| Long Cage | 32-42T and above (varies) | Mountain Biking | Wide gear range, accommodates large cassettes | Heavier, may have chain slack with small cassettes |
| Oversized Cage | Varies | Extreme MTB Racing | Improved chain tension and stability | May add weight, specific to certain models |
FAQs
How do I know what size derailleur cage I need? The size of the derailleur cage you need depends on your bike’s drivetrain and the range of gears you plan to use. Generally, a short cage is suitable for smaller cassettes with fewer gears, while a long cage is needed for larger cassettes with more gears. You can usually find compatibility information in your bike’s user manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
How do I know if my derailleur is long or short cage? Check the labeling or model name/number on your derailleur. Manufacturers often specify whether it’s a short or long cage in the product name. If not, you can compare it to similar models online or measure the distance between the jockey wheels (pulleys); long cages have greater spacing to accommodate larger cassettes.
Can I use a short cage derailleur with 11-32? Yes, you can typically use a short cage derailleur with an 11-32 cassette. However, always refer to your specific derailleur’s compatibility guidelines, as it may vary between brands and models.
Can I change derailleur cage length? In some cases, you can change the derailleur cage length, but it depends on the derailleur model. Some derailleurs have interchangeable cages, while others do not. Consult the manufacturer’s documentation or a bike mechanic for guidance on your specific derailleur.
How do I know if I need a medium or long cage derailleur? The choice between medium and long cage derailleurs depends on your cassette size and the range of gears you want to use. If you plan to use a larger cassette (e.g., 11-34 or 11-36), you’ll likely need a long cage derailleur to handle the extra chain length required.
Can I use a long cage derailleur with a small cassette? Yes, you can use a long cage derailleur with a small cassette, but it may not be the most efficient setup. Long cage derailleurs are designed for larger cassettes, so they may have more chain slack when used with a smaller cassette.
What is the downside of a long cage derailleur? The main downside of a long cage derailleur is increased chain slack when used with a smaller cassette. This can result in less precise shifting and a less efficient drivetrain compared to using the appropriate cage length for your cassette size.
Can you use an 11-30 cassette with a short cage derailleur? Yes, an 11-30 cassette is within the range that a short cage derailleur can typically handle. However, always check your specific derailleur’s compatibility guidelines to be sure.
Does cage length affect chain length? Yes, cage length affects the required chain length. Longer cages require more chain to accommodate the larger range of motion when shifting between gears. Conversely, shorter cages need less chain. When changing the cage length, you may need to adjust your chain length accordingly.
How do I know if my rear derailleur is short cage? Check the labeling or model name/number on your rear derailleur. Manufacturers usually specify whether it’s a short or long cage in the product name. If not, you can compare it to similar models online or measure the distance between the jockey wheels (pulleys); short cages have less spacing.
Is an 11-34 cassette good for climbing? An 11-34 cassette provides a wider range of gearing options compared to smaller cassettes, making it suitable for climbing steep hills. It offers lower gears, allowing you to spin comfortably when climbing.
Can I replace an 11-30 cassette with an 11-32? Yes, you can replace an 11-30 cassette with an 11-32 cassette as long as your derailleur and drivetrain are compatible with the new cassette’s size.
Can you put a long cage on a short cage derailleur? In most cases, you cannot convert a short cage derailleur into a long cage derailleur. The cage length is typically fixed for each derailleur model and cannot be easily changed.
Can you convert a short cage derailleur to a long cage? Converting a short cage derailleur to a long cage is not a common or straightforward process. It usually involves replacing the entire derailleur with one that has a longer cage.
What does an oversized derailleur cage do? An oversized derailleur cage, often seen in some mountain bike derailleurs, provides additional stability and chain tension. It can help improve shifting performance and reduce chain drop in rough terrain.
What are the advantages of a short cage derailleur? Short cage derailleurs are lighter, offer crisper and more precise shifting, and are typically used with smaller cassettes. They are ideal for road racing and situations where a wide gear range is not necessary.
Should derailleur cage be straight? Yes, the derailleur cage should be aligned parallel to the cassette cogs for optimal shifting performance. Misaligned cages can lead to poor shifting and increased wear on the drivetrain.
How far should the derailleur be from the cassette? The ideal distance between the derailleur and cassette varies depending on the specific derailleur and bike setup. However, a general guideline is to have a gap of approximately 1-3 mm between the upper jockey wheel and the largest cassette cog when in the highest gear.
Can you swap derailleur cages? In some cases, you can swap derailleur cages if the manufacturer provides compatible replacement parts. However, this is not a common practice, and it’s often easier to replace the entire derailleur if a different cage length is needed.
Why won’t my rear derailleur shift to the smallest cog? There could be several reasons for this issue, including cable tension, limit screw adjustments, or a bent derailleur hanger. Check and adjust these factors to troubleshoot the problem.
What is the cage length of Shimano Ultegra? Shimano Ultegra derailleurs come in both short and long cage options, so the cage length depends on the specific model you have.
What is the lifespan of a rear derailleur? The lifespan of a rear derailleur can vary significantly depending on usage, maintenance, and quality. With proper care, a rear derailleur can last for many thousands of miles. However, in high-stress conditions or with neglect, it may wear out sooner.
What is the most efficient derailleur? Efficiency in derailleurs depends on various factors, including design, materials, and maintenance. Higher-end derailleurs from reputable manufacturers often offer better efficiency in shifting and chain retention.
What is the difference between Shimano GS and SGS? Shimano GS and SGS refer to different cage lengths for rear derailleurs. GS stands for “medium cage,” while SGS stands for “long cage.” They are designed to accommodate different cassette sizes and chain lengths.
What is the maximum cassette for a short cage derailleur? The maximum cassette size for a short cage derailleur is typically around 28 to 30 teeth. Using a larger cassette may result in insufficient chain tension or poor shifting performance.
Is there much difference between an 11-32 and an 11-34 cassette? There is a noticeable difference between an 11-32 and an 11-34 cassette in terms of gear range. The 11-34 cassette provides lower gears, making it easier to climb steep hills compared to the 11-32 cassette.
Do I need a longer chain for a long cage derailleur? Yes, a long cage derailleur requires a longer chain to accommodate the greater range of motion when shifting between gears.
Is a short chain stronger than a long chain? The strength of a chain is primarily determined by its material and construction, not its length. Both short and long chains can be strong if they are made from durable materials and well-constructed.
How do you know if your chain is too long? A chain is too long if it hangs loosely or drags on the ground when in the smallest front chainring and smallest rear cog. It can also be too long if it causes poor shifting or excessive chain slap.
What is the difference between 11-42 and 11-51? 11-42 and 11-51 refer to different cassette sizes, specifically the number of teeth on the largest and smallest cogs. An 11-42 cassette has a smaller range compared to an 11-51 cassette, which offers a wider range of gearing options for climbing.
What is the difference between 28 and 30 tooth cassette? The difference between a 28-tooth and a 30-tooth cassette is two teeth on the largest cog. A 30-tooth cassette provides slightly lower gearing, which can be beneficial for climbing.
Can I use an 11-speed derailleur with a 10-speed cassette? In most cases, you cannot use an 11-speed derailleur with a 10-speed cassette because the spacing between the cogs is different. The derailleur may not shift properly or at all.
Which is better, 32T or 34T? The choice between a 32-tooth and a 34-tooth chainring depends on your riding preferences and terrain. A 34T chainring provides slightly higher gearing, which can be advantageous for speed on flat terrain or descents. A 32T chainring offers lower gearing for climbing.
Is an 11-34 cassette better than an 11-30? The choice between an 11-34 and an 11-30 cassette depends on your riding style and the terrain you encounter. An 11-34 cassette provides a wider range of gearing options, making it better for climbing steep hills. An 11-30 cassette may be preferred for flatter terrain or faster riding.
Is a 10-36 cassette good for climbing? A 10-36 cassette provides a wider range of lower gears, making it suitable for climbing steep hills. It offers more climbing-friendly options compared to cassettes with smaller maximum cogs.
What is the best cassette for hill climbing? The best cassette for hill climbing depends on the steepness of the hills and your personal fitness level. Generally, cassettes with larger maximum cogs (e.g., 11-34, 11-36, 11-42) are better suited for climbing.
What is 11-32 cassette good for? An 11-32 cassette provides a versatile range of gearing options suitable for a variety of riding conditions, including moderate climbing and flat terrain. It strikes a balance between speed and climbing capability.
Can I go from 11-28 to 11-32? Yes, you can usually upgrade from an 11-28 to an 11-32 cassette if your rear derailleur and bike’s drivetrain are compatible. This change may require adjusting the derailleur’s B-tension screw and chain length.
Should you carry a spare derailleur hanger? Carrying a spare derailleur hanger can be a good idea if you’re on a long ride or bikepacking trip, especially in remote areas where finding replacement parts may be difficult. Derailleur hangers can bend or break in accidents or falls, so having a spare can save your ride.
What does Shimano SGS stand for? SGS stands for “Shadow Plus,” a technology developed by Shimano that enhances rear derailleur stability and reduces chain slap in rough terrain.
How do I increase my derailleur capacity? To increase the derailleur capacity, you can use a derailleur with a longer cage (if compatible) or change your front chainring setup to reduce the difference in tooth count between the largest and smallest chainrings.
Can I use a short cage derailleur with 11-32? Yes, you can typically use a short cage derailleur with an 11-32 cassette. However, always refer to your specific derailleur’s compatibility guidelines, as it may vary between brands and models.
Can I change derailleur cage length? In some cases, you can change the derailleur cage length, but it depends on the derailleur model. Some derailleurs have interchangeable cages, while others do not. Consult the manufacturer’s documentation or a bike mechanic for guidance on your specific derailleur.
How do I know if my derailleur is long or short cage? Check the labeling or model name/number on your derailleur. Manufacturers often specify whether it’s a short or long cage in the product name. If not, you can compare it to similar models online or measure the distance between the jockey wheels (pulleys); long cages have greater spacing to accommodate larger cassettes.
Can I use a long cage derailleur with a small cassette? Yes, you can use a long cage derailleur with a small cassette, but it may not be the most efficient setup. Long cage derailleurs are designed for larger cassettes, so they may have more chain slack when used with a smaller cassette.
What is the downside of a long cage derailleur? The main downside of a long cage derailleur is increased chain slack when used with a smaller cassette. This can result in less precise shifting and a less efficient drivetrain compared to using the appropriate cage length for your cassette size.
Do I need a short or medium cage derailleur? The choice between a short and medium cage derailleur depends on your cassette size and the range of gears you want to use. If you plan to use a smaller cassette (e.g., 11-28), a short cage derailleur is typically sufficient. If you need a larger cassette (e.g., 11-32), a medium cage derailleur may be necessary.
What is the difference between GS and SS derailleur? GS stands for “medium cage,” while SS stands for “short cage” when referring to Shimano rear derailleurs. They have different cage lengths to accommodate various cassette sizes.
What is the advantage of no front derailleur? Eliminating the front derailleur simplifies the bike’s drivetrain and reduces weight. This can lead to smoother shifting, less maintenance, and a cleaner appearance. It’s particularly popular in single-chainring (1x) setups used in mountain biking and some road cycling disciplines.
What is the difference between 2-speed and 3-speed front derailleur? A 2-speed front derailleur is designed for a double chainring setup, typically with two chainrings in the front. A 3-speed front derailleur is designed for a triple chainring setup, with three chainrings in the front. The number of speeds indicates how many chainrings the derailleur is designed to work with.
How do I know if my rear derailleur cage is bent? Inspect the rear derailleur cage from the rear and side views. It should appear straight and parallel to the cassette cogs. If you notice any visible bends, kinks, or damage, it may be bent. Additionally, if your shifting performance is poor despite proper adjustments, a bent cage could be the cause.
How far above the teeth of the chainring should a front derailleur cage be mounted? The front derailleur cage should be positioned so that it hovers just above the teeth of the chainring, typically around 1-3 millimeters. This ensures that the chain can move smoothly between chainrings without rubbing or dropping.
Can you adjust the derailleur with the bike upside down? You can make some basic adjustments to the derailleur with the bike upside down, but it’s usually more effective to perform fine-tuning while the bike is upright and in a stand. Major adjustments, such as setting limit screws, are best done in a workshop or with a bike stand.
How should a derailleur sit? A derailleur should sit parallel to the cassette cogs and chainrings. The upper jockey wheel should be aligned with the same plane as the cassette, and the cage should be at the correct height above the teeth of the chainrings.
What size cassette do Tour de France riders use? Tour de France riders typically use a variety of cassette sizes, depending on the terrain of each stage. Common choices include cassettes with a wide range, such as 11-28 or 11-32, to accommodate both flat and mountainous stages.
Can you convert a short cage derailleur to a long cage? Converting a short cage derailleur into a long cage is not a common or straightforward process. It usually involves replacing the entire derailleur with one that has a longer cage.
What does an oversized derailleur cage do? An oversized derailleur cage, often seen in some mountain bike derailleurs, provides additional stability and chain tension. It can help improve shifting performance and reduce chain drop in rough terrain.
Why is my derailleur stuck on the largest cog? A derailleur getting stuck on the largest cog can be due to issues with cable tension, limit screw adjustments, or a bent derailleur hanger. Check and adjust these factors to troubleshoot the problem.
Why does my bike not shift to the lowest gear? A bike not shifting to the lowest gear can be caused by issues with cable tension, limit screw adjustments, or derailleur hanger alignment. Check and adjust these factors to allow the derailleur to shift to the lowest gear.
Is the Shimano Altus a long cage? The Shimano Altus rear derailleur comes in both short and long cage options, so the cage length depends on the specific model you have.
What is the difference between 105 and Ultegra derailleur? Shimano 105 and Ultegra are different tiers of groupsets, and their derailleurs differ in terms of materials, weight, and some design features. Ultegra is generally considered higher-end and offers slightly better performance, but 105 is still a high-quality and reliable option.
How often should you replace your derailleurs? The lifespan of derailleurs varies depending on factors like usage, maintenance, and quality. With proper care, they can last for many thousands of miles. However, if they become worn, damaged, or start to shift poorly despite adjustments, it’s time to consider replacement.
Do derailleurs wear out? Yes, derailleurs can wear out over time due to the stresses of shifting, exposure to the elements, and general wear and tear. Common signs of wear include poor shifting performance, excessive play, or visible damage.
What is the toughest rear derailleur? Toughness in rear derailleurs depends on the intended use and brand. In mountain biking, models designed for downhill or extreme terrain are built to withstand heavy abuse. Brands like Shimano and SRAM offer durable rear derailleurs for various applications.
What is the most efficient gear ratio for cycling? The most efficient gear ratio for cycling depends on factors like your fitness level, riding style, and terrain. There is no one-size-fits-all answer, but experienced cyclists often find a balance between cadence and resistance that works best for them.
What is the difference between GS and SGS cage length? GS stands for “medium cage,” while SGS stands for “long cage” when referring to Shimano rear derailleurs. They have different cage lengths to accommodate various cassette sizes.
What is the difference between Shimano m8100 GS and SGS? Shimano m8100 GS and SGS refer to different cage lengths for rear derailleurs in the Shimano Deore XT M8100 groupset. GS stands for “medium cage,” while SGS stands for “long cage.” They are designed to accommodate different cassette sizes and chain lengths.
Is an 11-28 cassette good for climbing? An 11-28 cassette provides a moderate range of gearing options, which may be suitable for climbing moderate hills. However, for steep or extended climbs, cyclists often prefer cassettes with lower gearing, such as 11-32 or 11-34.
Can I replace an 11-30 cassette with an 11-32? Yes, you can typically replace an 11-30 cassette with an 11-32 cassette as long as your rear derailleur and bike’s drivetrain are compatible. This change may require adjusting the derailleur’s B-tension screw and chain length.
How close should the derailleur be to the cassette? The ideal distance between the derailleur and cassette varies depending on the specific derailleur and bike setup. However, a general guideline is to have a gap of approximately 1-3 millimeters between the upper jockey wheel and the largest cassette cog when in the highest gear.
What are the benefits of a short cage derailleur? Short cage derailleurs are lighter, offer crisper and more precise shifting, and are typically used with smaller cassettes. They are ideal for road racing and situations where a wide gear range is not necessary.
Is 11-34 cassette good for climbing? An 11-34 cassette provides a wider range of lower gears, making it suitable for climbing steep hills. It offers more climbing-friendly options compared to cassettes with smaller maximum cogs.
Is a 10-36 cassette good for climbing? A 10-36 cassette provides a wider range of lower gears compared to many standard cassettes, making it suitable for climbing steep hills. It offers more climbing-friendly options than cassettes with smaller maximum cogs.
Does cage length affect chain length? Yes, cage length affects the required chain length. Longer cages require more chain to accommodate the greater range of motion when shifting between gears. Conversely, shorter cages need less chain. When changing the cage length, you may need to adjust your chain length accordingly.
Can you use an 11-30 cassette with a short cage derailleur? Yes, an 11-30 cassette is typically within the range that a short cage derailleur can handle. However, always check your specific derailleur’s compatibility guidelines to be sure.
Do longer or shorter chains look better? The aesthetics of chain length are subjective and do not significantly affect a bike’s appearance. Chains are typically sized for functional reasons, such as compatibility with the drivetrain, rather than for appearance.
What is the hardest chain to break? The difficulty of breaking a chain depends on the quality and type of chain tool you use. Chains vary in strength and material, but high-quality chain tools are designed to make the process of breaking and installing chains easier.
What is the perfect chain length? The perfect chain length depends on your bike’s specific setup, including the number of chainrings and cassette teeth, as well as the rear derailleur. It’s essential to follow manufacturer guidelines and recommendations to determine the correct chain length for your bike.
What is the best chain length to get? The best chain length to get is the one recommended by your bike’s manufacturer and drivetrain components. Following their guidelines ensures proper shifting performance and reduces the risk of chain-related issues.
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