I'm converting my 2008 Specialized Rockhopper 29er to 3x9 from 3x8. I bought a SRAM PG-980 cassette, PC-991 chain, new freehub, bearings, and cones. My current rear derailleur is the stock Shimano Alivio RD-M410 and kinda sloppy so I want to upgrade to match my new cassette and chain. Looking at Shimano Deore XT or SRAM something or other. I know that I have to buy at least a rear shifter to match my new 9-speed rear casette, so maybe I should go with SRAM instead of Shimano? Current stock shift levers are Shimano Acera SL-MC40. I can get a good condition used pair of couple year old Shimano LX shifters for cheap.
Currently running the stock front derailleur, a Shimano Altus FD-M310-6, top swing, with 34.9mm clamp.
Looking for best bang for my bucks here, but want quality operation, reliability and durability.
Also thinking about converting to 2x9 instead of 3x9....don't seem to need big ring much. What rear derailleur should I buy, Shimano or SRAM, long-cage or mid-cage?
EDIT: Looking to spend about $100 + tax for rear derailleur....not sure about the shifters. I've managed to bend several rear derailleur hangers riding rocky trails, so that is a consideration too....as far as rear derailleurs go.
EDIT: Hmmm maybe Shimano SLX? Save a few bucks, little more weight but same spring tension and shifting
Currently running the stock front derailleur, a Shimano Altus FD-M310-6, top swing, with 34.9mm clamp.
Looking for best bang for my bucks here, but want quality operation, reliability and durability.
Also thinking about converting to 2x9 instead of 3x9....don't seem to need big ring much. What rear derailleur should I buy, Shimano or SRAM, long-cage or mid-cage?
EDIT: Looking to spend about $100 + tax for rear derailleur....not sure about the shifters. I've managed to bend several rear derailleur hangers riding rocky trails, so that is a consideration too....as far as rear derailleurs go.
EDIT: Hmmm maybe Shimano SLX? Save a few bucks, little more weight but same spring tension and shifting