Changing the sprocket set on your bike: Changing the cassette is so easy!

1. remove the impeller

The first thing to do is to remove the rear wheel. Open the thru axle or the quick release. Thru axles must be pulled out completely, classic quick-releases must only be opened far enough. Move the rear derailleur into the mounting position (Sram) or loosen the spring tension of the rear derailleur damping (Shimano Shadow+). The complete wheel can then be threaded out of the dropouts.

2. remove the cassette

You will need a chain whip and a suitable sprocket puller for this step. Place the removed wheel in front of you. Bend over it so that you can apply enough force. The Chain whip on one of the larger sprockets and check that many teeth are engaging correctly. The whip should be pointing to the left. Then insert the sprocket puller (available as a nut or complete spanner) into the teeth of the cassette and open the locking ring with the appropriate spanner (long lever helps). Use the chain whip to counteract this.

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3. clean freewheel

When removing the cassette, note the order of the small parts if necessary. Clean the freewheel thoroughly and apply a thin layer of grease. This can prevent noises from occurring or the cassette from digging into the freewheel. A All-purpose grease Shimano or DT Swiss also offer special greases for hubs.

4. mount sprocket

Now fit the new sprocket set. For individual sprockets (usually Shimano), pay attention to the sequence and do not forget the spacer rings. The sprockets can only be slid on in one position. The gearing determines the correct fit. The direction of the sprockets must also be correct. The outside is where the climbing aids are located. The inside is usually smooth.

5. tighten the cassette

With Shimano cassettes, the end ring comes at the very end, Sram cassettes are completely one-piece. If everything fits correctly again, the sprocket set is screwed back on. This can be done without a chain whip, but the manufacturer's torque specifications must be observed. Caution: If tightening is difficult, the correct fit of the sprocket set should be checked.

6. differences Sram

The procedure for changing Shimano and Sram sprocket sets is basically identical. However, Sram cassettes are always in one piece - completely riveted or milled from a block. This makes changing them very simple. With Shimano, the smaller sprockets are usually separate. This means they can be replaced individually as required. This makes replacing them a little fiddly, but is a big advantage when there is a lot of wear.