3x9 to 2x9

[Gumstabber]

I want to change from running a 3x9 setup to a 2x9 setup on my Orange ST4, no real reason other than pure laziness regarding front shifting and a large desire to fettle.

Looking at ratio calculations I'll be fine with just 9 on the back and a 39/26 on the front (also by not changing the rear I'll save a pile of money). However having had a poke around on the various internet shops all the double ring setups (unless I want to simply change my big ring for a bash guard and bodge my derailleur - which I don't) say that they are 2x10.

The question is. If I change to 2x10 chainrings at the front will this be ok with my 9 speed cassette at the back and the 9 speed chain? Is it going to work at all or should I just stay with 3x9.

[Pablo16v]

You’ll also save a pile of money if you just fit a bash in place of the outer ring and set the limit screw on the front mech. Is there a particular reason why you don’t want to do this?

[a11y_m]

10-sp chainrings are fine with a 9-sp chain, but why bother when 9-sp chainrings are available and likely to be cheaper? I use basic shimano 9-sp 24t inner and 36t middle rings on my 2x9 setup, with a 34-11 9-sp cassette. Does the job perfectly.

[Japsteeze]

The 10speed chainrings will work fine with the 9speed chain/cassette.

I'd just take the plunge and go to a 1x9 setup, makes the bike look much cleaner as you dont have the shifter, cabling or derailleur. It'll also save a bit of weight. If you use a 34T or 36T front ring and a wide range rear cassette the gearing will still be fine.