Convert triple to double [archive]

alfeng

I have a 2005 Specialized Allez Sport w/ Mavic Cosmic Elites and want to change the tiagra 105 combo to maybe Dura-ace Ultegra or full DA. It's a 9 speed, what am i going to have to do in order to change besides buying crank? Is it an easy converstion?
Thanks
AustinThe conversion IS easy, but you need to ask yourself WHY you want to make it ...

You'll need an 8mm Allen wrench + crank puller since your crank probably doesn't have self-extracting bolts.

You may-or-may-not need a Shimano BB tool + wrench.

A small screwdriver to adjust the front derailleur inner stop.

BEFORE you spend the money for a new crankset, you may want to:

simply remove the granny
adjust the front derailleur's stops
You'll need a 5mm Allen wrench to remove the granny AND/OR if you need to change the middle chainring to one with less teeth (e.g., 39t).

If you aren't shifting onto the granny and the middle ring is a 42t, then you don't have to change it ... otherwise, you may want a 39t or 38t chainring ... if you already have a 39t middle ring on your crankset, so much the better.

After you have put some miles (at least a few rides, if not a month's worth of rides) on your re-configured bike, then consider getting a new crank -- at that point, you will know if you want another standard road crank OR you may want a "compact" crank..

If your current crank uses an Octalink BB, then you can consider swapping the current BB (probably 118mm) for a double-specific BB if you aren't planning on upgrading to a Hollowtech II crank -- changing to a BB with a shorter spindle isn't necessary ... it may improve shifting a small amount AND the chainline in some gear combinations.

FWIW. I don't think you will see a signficant difference in "performance" if you were to change from your current crankset to either an Ultegra or Dura Ace double unless you are opting for one of the "new" Hollowtech II cranks ...

However, you will lighten your bike by a small amount AND your wallet by a lot if you choose to upgrade to a full Dura Ace group UNLESS you have a benefactor!