53/39T v. 52/38T

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2012-01-21 1:01 PM


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Subject: 53/39T v. 52/38T

I am searching for a crankset with shorter arms (167.5 or 170).  Most I have seen have been 53/39T but my current one is 52/38.  Are these interchangeable using the same cassette and chain?

2012-01-21 2:07 PM
in reply to: #4003268

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Subject: RE: 53/39T v. 52/38T

Yes.

53/39 and 52/38 are both for a standard crank.  50 is for a compact crank.  When I replaced my rings, I actually went from 53/39 to 53/38, just for a tiny bit lower end capability without any issues with the chain or cassette.

2012-01-21 2:25 PM
in reply to: #4003268

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Subject: RE: 53/39T v. 52/38T

Yes, you can use the same cassette and chain. 

FWIW, I am running a 52-38 on one of my compact (110BCD) cranks, along with 46-36 on a different bike. I also have a 53-39 crank (130 BCD) crank on my TT bike. I interchange my wheels (and cassettes) between all three. 

2012-01-21 2:30 PM
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Subject: RE: 53/39T v. 52/38T
Mc Q - 2012-01-21 2:07 PM

Yes.

53/39 and 52/38 are both for a standard crank.  50 is for a compact crank.  When I replaced my rings, I actually went from 53/39 to 53/38, just for a tiny bit lower end capability without any issues with the chain or cassette.

Be careful with that and make sure to check the bolt diameter, 110 or 130. As Stickyrunner showed, 52/38 could actually be either size.

And to the OP, you should not have to get a new chain or cassette when between those.



Edited by brigby1 2012-01-21 2:32 PM
2012-01-22 1:36 PM
in reply to: #4003378

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Subject: RE: 53/39T v. 52/38T
brigby1 - 2012-01-21 3:30 PM
Mc Q - 2012-01-21 2:07 PM

Yes.

53/39 and 52/38 are both for a standard crank.  50 is for a compact crank.  When I replaced my rings, I actually went from 53/39 to 53/38, just for a tiny bit lower end capability without any issues with the chain or cassette.

Be careful with that and make sure to check the bolt diameter, 110 or 130. As Stickyrunner showed, 52/38 could actually be either size.

And to the OP, you should not have to get a new chain or cassette when between those.

Good point. I also use a 52/38 and it is a 110 (compact crank)

2012-01-23 8:56 AM
in reply to: #4003268

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Davenport, IA
Subject: RE: 53/39T v. 52/38T
52/38 is almost always going to be a compact crank.  You would definitely still be able to use the cassette, and probably the chain...as long as it wasn't cut on the short side initially.  1 tooth shouldn't really make a huge difference on necessary chain length.

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