Upgrading the Tern Link D8 Drivetrain (Part 1)

The stock drivetrain components of my Tern Link D8 is good. There are times when you get frustrated over tuning the rear mech. Sometimes you need the 34 of 36 tooth cog for that steep climb or maybe the 11 tooth cog for speed on flats.  These all point to upgrading the bike's drivetrain (most of it).

The stock parts:

  • SR Suntour Rear Mech
  • Sun Race 8 Speed Cogs 12-32
  • 8 Speed Chain (don't know the brand)
  • SRAM MRX Comp 8 Speed Grip Shifter
  • Biologic long and short grips (paired with the grip shifter)
Upgrades:
  • Shimano Zee Short-cage Rear Mech (Freeride) 

  • Shimano XT 11-36 Cogs
  • Shimano XT I-Spec type 10 Speed Shifter (matches my Deore I-Spec brake levers)
  • YBN SLA101 NP 10 Speed Chain
  • Tern Rear Mech Adapter
  • Lock on grips with barend
Miscellaneous items
  • cable crimp ends
Tools needed:
  • Cassette lock ring tool
  • Chain whip
  • Allen wrenches
  • Chain tool
  • Adjustable wrench

Pre Installation: Dis-assemble and remove the stock drive train.
  • Break the chain.  Use the chain tool to remove the stock chain from the bike. Push the pin far enough to pull the chain apart but short of popping out the pin from the chain.
  • Remove the rear mech. An allen bolt is the only thing holding the mech in place.
  • Remove the rear wheel. Un-clasp the V-brake. Loosen the quick release axle then pop the wheel out.
  • Remove the cogs. Use the lock ring tool and slide it in the cassette lock ring. Hold the freewheel with the chain tool. Use an adjustable wrench to hold the lock ring tool. Turn the wrench counter clockwise while countering the freewheel with the chain tool.
  • Clean the hubs and frame. Its now time to clean those hard to reach places in the bike before installing the new components.
  • Remove the grips. Loosen the lock screw then twist and pull the grips until it comes off the handle bar.
  • Remove the SRAM grip shifter. Use the same procedure with the grips. Pull the shifter cable out of the cable housing.
  • Remove the right hand brake lever.

Continue reading on part 2 of this post...

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