Going from Double to Triple crankset

[The_Eggman]

Lo All

I'm toying with the idea of going from a double to a triple crankset, and I just wanted to understand what issues I'm likely to be running into from a compatibility perspective? Will I need to change FD and/or brifters?

Currently running a full 9 speed DuraAce groupset (7701), with the one exception being an FSA compact crankset. If I could get away with it I'd probably just bolt on a Sora or Tiagra triple, which seem readily available and quite cheap.

Cheers

[Mulger bill]

You'll need a new LH brifter, possibly another front mech and likely a longer caged rear mech.

Why do you feel the need to change?

[jacks1071]

Why not fit a long rear mech and a mtb cassette? I'm assuming you want more low gears for climbing?

[The_Eggman]

Why do you feel the need to change?

Just looking at ideas to give me a bit more climbing firepower. I'm desperately trying to improve my climbing, so am riding a lot of hills, striving to lose weight and reading about climbing technique, but I'm also just looking for any mechanical edge I can get my hands on, as I'm working toward a particular event and am rapidly running out of runway.

I realise going to a triple would effectively give me only one additional gear. Perhaps Jacks suggestion is a better one?

[Mulger bill]

Jacks is most likely right, what cassette do you currently run?

[clackers]

Why not fit a long rear mech and a mtb cassette

A Touring Bike favourite.

[toolonglegs]

I am running a compact 46/38 on my cross bike with a old school xtr 9 speed rear derailleur and an 11-34 cassette... I went from 10 speed to 9 speed a while ago as 9 speed works much more reliably in the heavy mud I race in.
Will be a much cheaper alternative than fitting a triple ( you will need long cage rear dérailleur, Mtb cassette and new chain. Maybe a new cable inner as well ).

[The_Eggman]

Jacks is most likely right, what cassette do you currently run?

12-27

I actually had a far better climbing day on Monday. I made a conscious effort to drop my pace on the climbs and felt a lot more comfortable as a consequence. Might just see how that evolves before jumping in on more gear changes

[Mulger bill]

Good idea. If you find you still need more a x-28t cassette might be just enough to tip the balance in your favour.

[jasonc]

how about a compact crank?