Author Topic: Shimano 105 12 speed with 11-30 cassette?  (Read 687 times)

A.V.G

Shimano 105 12 speed with 11-30 cassette?
« on: December 03, 2024, 03:11:08 PM »
Hello All,

Short version: Anybody successfully running Shimano 105 [Di2] 12 speed with a cassette smaller than 11-34?  If so, did you have to make any changes to the groupset in order to make it work?  Have you tried any other chains with this groupset?

Long version:
I'm spec'ing out my new aero build and have started collecting the bits.  For the groupset, I went with 105 Di2 and a Magene p505 52/36 crankset and I want to use an 11-30 cassette (by ZTTO). 

I've read and heard from various sources that 12spd 105 is designed to only work with 11-34 and 11-36 cassettes.  My question is, is this a REAL limitation of the 12spd [Di2?] groupset, or is this just Shimano's way of up-selling buyers into Ultegra? 

To further complicate things, I've purchased a [cheap] over-sized pulley wheel system. It seems to me that the difference between the Ultegra and 105 rear mechs is cage length - with 105 having the longer cage.  If my [cheap] OPS has a shorter-than-original 105 cage, can I get away with 105 & 11-30 cassette?

Bonus question: Since no part of the driveline (that touches the chain) is actually Shimano, is it worth trying a KMC chain? 

TIA for your input!



Tilmanstoa5ty

Re: Shimano 105 12 speed with 11-30 cassette?
« Reply #1 on: December 03, 2024, 03:32:57 PM »
I'm personally running the standard 11-34 but i really don't see a reason why it shouldn't work. I think the only adjustment necessary is the b-screw everything else should be the same.

PLA

Re: Shimano 105 12 speed with 11-30 cassette?
« Reply #2 on: December 13, 2024, 10:33:25 AM »
It works perfectly fine. Just adjust the b screw to match 11-30 spec.
LET'S MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

TRUMP FOR PRESIDENT 2024!

MAGA!