Determining if there is too much chain tension on 1x setup with XT clutch derailleur I've outfitted my 2016 Giant TCX with a 1x 42t in the front and 11-40 in the rear. I'm finding that with the clutch engaged shifting into the 40t in the back is &quot;harder&quot; and it feels like there is resistance when I pedal the bike in the work stand.
The issue goes away if I disable the clutch. Tuning the clutch down slightly has helped with the shifting but my question is do I have too much tension and is my chain too short?
I followed these instructions and have posted an image below for reference the chain is cut to 57 links based on Park Tools equation and measurements based on this manual.
Thanks!
Shimano 1x groupset manuals differ in chain length instructions from the general procedure that Park Tool provides in their repair help - the Shimano instructions say to add more additional links. That makes sense as in a 1x setup a derailleur needs to deal with less sprocket/chainring teeth difference than a 2x or 3x.
Looks like your chain is a bit too short, and that might be causing the issue. AFAIK, chain length should not affect tension very much. Derailleur springs are designed so that they deliver reasonably contant-ish tension over the range of movement of the derailleur linkages. You may be bumping up against the limits of the derailleur though.
I'd fix the chain length i.e. size it according to Shimano's instructions. That will either fix the issue or rule that out as a cause.