rt1965 said:
Well, I've already bought the bike and I did have it converted to a compact double. They did have to change the front derailer, and the shifter on top of the crankset. All is well, the bike is fantastic. I am going back tomorrow for a full fitting.
I presume that the reason you want to train in the Flagstaff area is to get away from the HEAT!
FWIW. This is after-the-fact since you just mounted the compact crank on your bike -- I
just (as in, over the past weekend) mounted a cassette with an 11-32t cassette in a frame with a
short cage 105 rear derailleur & 52/39 double crankset -- the center of the particular derailleur hanger bolt is
3cm from the axle center -- the short cage rear derailleur (to MY surprise) has enough capacity to handle the chain. That's a pretty low combination which I know is good enough for riding on mountain roads; but, obviously not quite as low as with most triple setups. You may never need to use anything larger than the 28t in the cassette, but the 32t will be a good
bail-out cog to have in reserve.
While it isn't as good as having a compact crank, you could always mount a 38t 130BCD inner chainring on a standard road crank; so, I would certainly try a cassette with a 32t cog before opting for the triple ...
If you run a slightly longer chain which can accomodate the 52t-or-53t chainring & 32t cog, then you can just swap cassettes as needed ...
FWIW2. Unless you are planning on riding EAST, SOUTH or WEST of Flagstaff, it's probably FLATTER than you think/remember ... it seems pretty FLAT (to me when I am IN A CAR) as you head NORTH to the Canyon. It will probably be
WINDY ...