7 speed to 8 speed can it be done?

[Sir Neil d'Menture]

I have a seven speed wheel. Not a cassette but a freewheel.
Can I simply put an 8 speed freewheel on the wheel and use 8 speed index (Shimano) shifters, or do I have to make some modifications?

 

[jimo746]

Re:

Is it a freewheel? Or a cassette/freehub?

I don't think you can with a freewheel??

If it's the latter then you can put a 8 speed cassette body on there,may need to swap axle spacers around, or red-dish the wheel slightly, I've done it a couple of times and not needed to adjust the wheel though, used an 8 speed STX cassette body and axle the last time.

 

[Sir Neil d'Menture]

Re:

It is not a cassette. It is a scew on freewheel.

 

[mdvineng]

It depends on the OLN and frame stay geometry. If your 7 speed looks like it has plenty of spare space between the last sprocket and frame, then it might fit an 8.

 

[Sir Neil d'Menture]

Re:

Thanks. There seems to be plenty of space. Space enough for the chain to fall into!

 

[legrandefromage]

can always play around with the axle spacing to get it to fit, then redish the wheel over

just remember it puts a lot of pressure on the axle and they can snap as the bearing is almost in the middle whereas cassette hubs the bearing is outboard

 

[Sir Neil d'Menture]

Re:

Thanks. Not sure I'm up to relishing the wheel. Each beyond my pay grade!!!

 

[legrandefromage]

its just loosening one lot of spokes and tightening some others so the rim sits central

 

[Sir Neil d'Menture]

Re:

I have tried it. Several times. Wheel never stays true or round. Guess I just don't have it when it comes to wheels.

 

[Peachy!]

Fit the 8sp, pop it along to your LBS... Bob’s your mothers brother