Gearing my cross bike for the road.

[xcess79]

My wife bought me an 2006 Tricross Comp a couple of years ago, but this year I've been doing a lot of road riding, and while it's been awesome, I'd like to change the gearing a bit. It runs a 48/34 compact in the front, and 12-25 in the rear. I'd like to be able to climb easier, and descend faster, but the only 9spd rear cassette that I can find is an 11-28. Is 28 too low? I was hoping to find an 11-27. I don't want to feel like I'm crawling a long when I'm climbing. Would it be possible to change the front 48 to a 50, and then get the Shimano 12-27? Any other suggestions? Thanks!

 

[gclark8]

Couple of options:

Cassette, The new HG50 11-25, or 11-anything you like on the Low gear.

If the Crankset has removable 110mm PCD Chainrings, then a Shimano 50t 9 Speed Compact Outer Chainring (I have one here) is a good second choice. The 48t derailleur should handle it ok.

 

[artemidorus]

I would go 12-27 and increase your big chainring to 50T, if possible.