endless automata

My problems started when I tried to use the cassette spline tool on what I thought was my rear cassette and it didn’t quite fit. That’s odd, I thought. After a bit of reading at Sheldon’s site, I realized what I had was a freewheel. Well, I thought, I guess I’ll need an 8 speed freewheel instead of an 8-speed cassette. Once again, Sheldon reminded me that I don’t know everything. Despite all this, I’ve talked to two bike mechanics that said it would probably just work. However, given the fact I have maximum 5mm of clearance from the chainstays right now, I’m thinking it’s going to be a tight squeeze. If it’s too tight, then I’ll need to redish the wheel, which means I’ll like be in danger of axle breakage, according to Sheldon. So, it looks like if I want to go 8 speed, I’m going to probably need a new wheel. I wouldn’t even be considering this if my bar ends weren’t 8 speed. Most folks say the .2mm difference in spacing isn’t a big deal between the shimano 7 and 8 speed parts, but I’m still a bit concerned - though I can always operate in friction mode.

Given the choice of dropping around $100 for more parts or sticking with what I have, especially for a bike that I plan on abusing, I think I’ll stick with what I have, despite how tempting it is to modernize the entire drivetrain. More updates soon - hopefully with some photos.