Skip to main content
Sidebar

How to choose a bike cassette

Your cassette sets how easy your climbing gears are and how fast your top gear is. Here's what to check.

Speed count

Match the number of gears on your shifter and derailleur, from 7-speed up to 13-speed.

Freehub body

The cassette must fit your hub: Shimano HG, Micro Spline, SRAM XD, SRAM XDR or Campagnolo.

Gear range

Written as smallest to largest cog, like 11-34T. A bigger largest cog means easier climbing.

Derailleur capacity

Check the largest cog your rear derailleur supports before fitting a wider-range cassette.

Weight vs durability

Premium cassettes save weight with alloy or titanium. Steel cassettes cost less and wear well.

Chain wear

Replace your chain on time and one cassette can outlast two or three chains.

Also see freewheels & sprockets, cassette spares, cassette tools and chains.

FAQ