Are all Shimano chainrings compatible?

In order for chainrings to be compatible with Shimano cranksets, they must have the same 110mm or 130mm BCD measurements as Shimano cranksets.

Are 8 and 9 speed chainrings compatible?

Yes; as long as you get a 7/8/9 speed compatible chainring set.

Are Shimano MTB chainrings interchangeable?

Are they interchangeable? Largely speaking, yes. As long as your attempting to replace them with a chainring(s) designed to work with your chainset. Your cranks will have a specific bolt layout or fitment spec so you can’t just fit a BMX chainring to your triathlon bike.

What is the best chainring size for MTB?

Mountain bike chainrings are available in smaller sizes all the way down to 26t, though I’d recommend most riders try a 30t or 28t first to experience how much easier it is to climb. For gravel bikes, I wouldn’t recommend going any smaller than 38t to maintain top-end speed on downhills.

Do SRAM chainrings work with Shimano?

Shimano and SRAM 11-speed chains are cross-compatible. If you have a Shimano 11-speed drivetrain, a SRAM chain will work fine and vice versa, however manufacturer’s recommend pairing your components for optimal performance.

Are all cranks interchangeable?

Cranksets are not always interchangeable. Every crank is designed to work with a specific bottom bracket. Even if the cranks use the same interface (octalink, square taper, or hollow tech), switching them between bike brands or even models of the same brand is hard.

Will a 10 speed chain work on a 8 speed cassette?

Going further narrower, like a 10, or 11 speed chain on an 8 speed cassette can and often does work. However, especially with older 6 speed cassettes combined with 11, or 12 speed chains, there is a risk of a chain getting stuck between cassette sprocket teeth and/or poorer shifting.

How do you know if chainring is compatible?

One of the easiest ways to determine which chainring is going to be compatible with your crank is to simply type in your brand, type, groupset, and type, added with “chainring”, and possible the amount of teeth you want. You can find the type of the crank located at the back of it.

What kind of chainring do I need?

Broadly speaking, if you ride a 29er and/or ride in steep mountains go for a chainring with 32T or fewer (the 11 speed Sram XX system goes down to 28T if your bike has the XX drivetrain). If you ride 26″ or 27.5″ wheels and/or ride in less mountainous terrain then go for a 34T or possibly even 36T chainring.