Upgrading Cassette

[nicruiser]

Hi,

I currently have a Trek 7.1FX hybrid and was wanting to ask what my options were regading changing the cassette as I find myself spinning out at times, as if need more gears when on flat or downhill.

I have had a quick look at the cassette and it appears to be 14-34t, would this be correct. I'm not too well clued up on this just and unsure what would be best my best option, if any, for upgrading.

 

[accountantpete]

Per the latest spec you have a 7 speed freewheel (the cluster screws onto the hub).

So google a Shimano 7 speed freewheel and you should be able to pick up a 12 -32t freewheel nor around £10.

Don't get a cassette as they are for freehubs (the cassettes slide onto the freehub which is already attached to the hub).

Alternatively you could get a triple chainset with 52/39/28 rings which would do the same job.

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

As above, you need a screw on freewheel not a cassette. My suggestion would be a Sunrace 13-34 (link) which is readily available and inexpensive. I have one of these on my knockabout bike at the moment and the 1 tooth difference in top gear is noticable on the road.

 

[nicruiser]

Cheers guys,

Many thanks for your help, its appreciated. Is there special tool needed to do this?

Thanks again

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

Cheers guys,

Many thanks for your help, its appreciated. Is there special tool needed to do this?

Thanks again

Yes, you'll need a freewheel remover like this one.

The freewheel undoes the normal way, but will be extremely tight. You can either clamp the tool in a bench vice and turn the wheel or use a long wrench. In my case I find an extending wheel nut wrench (and the appropriate socket) does the trick. An assistant helps when doing it the first time.

Edit: I should just add that it would be a good idea to fit a new chain at the same time as the freewheel. Using an old chain with a new freewheel may cause premature wear.

 

[compo]

To the OP
I have a virtually new Shimano 7 speed freewheel. It has done about 30 miles so is perfect. It had a new chain so hasn't even got any oil on it yet as the chain hasn't needed oiling. I have taken it off because it is 7 speed and my shifters are 6 speed indexed so I have fitted a 6 speed. A fiver post and packing and it's yours if you want it.

Edit: Just looked at it and it is a 14-28 so probably no use to you as no gain in the high gears.

 

[Cycleops]

I should make sure it is a freewheel, as all the specs going back to 2011 I have seen say cassette.

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

I should make sure it is a freewheel, as all the specs going back to 2011 I have seen say cassette.

You're right, it does say cassette on the Trek website. However, it shows the current model has a TZ31 which is one of these: http://www.evanscycles.com/products/shimano/tourney-7-speed-megarange-freewheel-ec025606

My brother has a 2011 7.1FX which also has this freewheel, which is how I knew to expect it. .

 

[adamhearn]

Sadly if it is a freewheel (I would think it is given the gear range) you're limited in choice. Shimano had a brief period when they offered a freewheel with a 13t cog but no more. You can get a Sunrace 28-13T model £15 from Evans (for example). Maybe there are others but I gave up looking myself.

 

[RecordAceFromNew]

Sadly if it is a freewheel (I would think it is given the gear range) you're limited in choice. Shimano had a brief period when they offered a freewheel with a 13t cog but no more. You can get a Sunrace 28-13T model £15 from Evans (for example). Maybe there are others but I gave up looking myself.

Adam you are quite right in that lower than 14T are uncommon, but I happen to have one of these Shimano 11-34T freewheels.

Sorry I am not selling mine, but 11T freewheels are available. There is a small market of them for e-bikes, apparently.