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The original shifters that came with my 2001 Kona Blast MTB is gone. Also, the cassette and chain are long over due for replacement.

Hence, was think of dropping the 8 speed (3×8) altogether for the following reasons:

  1. Limited options for replacement parts compared to 9sp or 10sp.
  2. Replacement parts even when available are only limited to either the lower range .. or from other compatible brands.
  3. Curiosity/vanity

Currently, will likely to use it mainly for my food delivery job.

I'm also planning to use this bike for touring (few days to 2 weeks). So would prefer to be able to get replacements easily at bike shops in the nearest town.

The reasons holding me back are: 1. I was told that 8sp chain and cassette are thicker therefore more durable. 2. Really cheap to overhaul

9sp and 10sp are about the same price, so I still contemplating which would be better.

Am leaning more towards to 10 since it seemed to be the most common currently.

Would like to hear your opinions on should I just stay at 8sp or upgrade to 9sp or 10sp.

|improve this question

closed as primarily opinion-based by Klaster_1, gschenk, Argenti Apparatus, David Richerby, mattnz Mar 20 at 2:30

Many good questions generate some degree of opinion based on expert experience, but answers to this question will tend to be almost entirely based on opinions, rather than facts, references, or specific expertise. If this question can be reworded to fit the rules in the help center, please edit the question.

  • Well, that's not really possible to answer from a neutral point of view. That's what we need for a proper Q and A form here. Hence a closing vote from me as well. Opinions in comments though might help you. – gschenk Mar 8 at 11:16
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    You've already have a good idea of the facts. 9 speed is often considered a sweet spot. Not much gain in range or increment going to 10 (for triple that is). – gschenk Mar 8 at 11:18
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    @gschenk freehub width for 8, 9, 10 should be the same, 7 speed freehubs are narrower I think – Argenti Apparatus Mar 8 at 13:06
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    If you go to 10 speed you will likely need a new crank because of chain width and chainring spacing differences. – Argenti Apparatus Mar 8 at 13:09
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    It also depends how competent you are with tools. Getting a LBS to do all this could cost as much as a new bike due to labour charges. That said I increased one bike from 1x6 to 3x8 and another from 3x5 to 3x9. The OLD is the critical make/break point. – Criggie♦ Mar 8 at 22:51