Shimano Short Cage/Long Cage Rear Mechs

[ratbane]

Just about to buy a new XT771 to replace my old (long) XT mech.

What are the advantages/disadvantages of the long/short mech options?

[Nick_F]

You'd be pushed to combine a short cage with a triple chainset - the short cage won't soak up enough chain to accomodate the variation in cog sizes. It may work, when everything's new and clean, but there's not much room for error.

If you only run two rings at the front, though, then you ought to be able to run the short cage and benefit from the extra ground clearance.

[ratbane]

Nick_F said:

You'd be pushed to combine a short cage with a triple chainset - the short cage won't soak up enough chain to accomodate the variation in cog sizes. It may work, when everything's new and clean, but there's not much room for error.

If you only run two rings at the front, though, then you ought to be able to run the short cage and benefit from the extra ground clearance.

Thanks. All the best.