Reply [Yak] gearing advice for a novice

[Paul Patterson]

====Quote==================
I want to change the gearing on my NWT but am a little confused about  
all the different configurations. My current set up is a triple  
chainring up front, 8 cogs at the back plus SRAM gripshift gear  
shifters. I never use neither the smallest nor the biggest cog (32  
tooth cog). Is there any benefit in replacing the existing cassette  
with something smaller? For example, will I be able to use a short  
cage derailleur? I want to swap the gripshift system for bar-end  
shifters. Apart from the rear derailleur is there anything else that  
will not be compatible? Does anybody have any personal  
recommendations or experience with setting up bar-end shifters?

any help or advice much appreciated
====End Quote==============

I have pretty much the setup you are talking about. I run a 30-42-52 triple in front and a 13-23 eight speed in the rear, with barcons. It is a set up that I really like and I actually get better performance in hilly terrain than I did with the stock 11-28. There is something to be said for close ratio shifting. It is nice being able to find just the right gear, or to make small jumps up in the gearing. Even in hilly terrain.  I kept the long cage dérailleur as I don't see any advantage to switching to a short cage. So if you have a good dérailleur, save your money. The switch should be an easy one. It sounds like all you need are barcons and a rear cassette. Oh yea, some new cable and housing will be needed. Just pick a day and get to work :-)

Paul in Cincy