Ajax Bay
Guru
- Location
- East Devon
Bike looks clean.
You only need a new cassette because the current one is 9sp and your shifters (Claris) are 8sp.
Because you need a new cassette, you need a new chain (actually you might well be fine but this depends on how many miles the cassette has done - and you will have no idea). I'd save the chain for when you've done 1500 miles on the new one, and then try it.
You do not need a new derailleur - as you postulate, the cage folds like that because there's no tension being applied by the non-existent cable. Put the chain on the large ring at the front and you'll see that it looks fine.
The LBS will appreciate your custom, though, so by all means go for it. They maybe able to make you a decent offer on nice road shoes and pedals and cleats. Have you considered the Cycle-to-Work scheme as it may offer tax advantages?
You only need a new cassette because the current one is 9sp and your shifters (Claris) are 8sp.
Because you need a new cassette, you need a new chain (actually you might well be fine but this depends on how many miles the cassette has done - and you will have no idea). I'd save the chain for when you've done 1500 miles on the new one, and then try it.
You do not need a new derailleur - as you postulate, the cage folds like that because there's no tension being applied by the non-existent cable. Put the chain on the large ring at the front and you'll see that it looks fine.
The LBS will appreciate your custom, though, so by all means go for it. They maybe able to make you a decent offer on nice road shoes and pedals and cleats. Have you considered the Cycle-to-Work scheme as it may offer tax advantages?
