Just like the recent march towards 1x drivetrains for mountain bikes, we’re starting to see similar interest in dropping the front derailleur for road bikes as well. Also just like the mountain bikes, many riders are looking for inexpensive ways to modify their existing drivetrains to see what it’s all about without buying a full set up. However, due to the limitations of most road derailleurs, you can’t just stuff a bigger cassette into the rear wheel.
Enter the new Roadlink. A joint venture between Lindarets and Wolf Tooth Components, the Roadlink picks up where the Goatlink for mountain biking left off. Thanks to this clever little device, you can bolt on 43% lower gearing than your average 11-28t cassette without losing the high-end…
Machined from 6061 aluminum in Wolf Tooth Component’s Minnesota facility, links are then anodized black and laser etched with the logos from both companies. Each Roadlink includes a stainless steel bolt that uses a standard 5 mm Allen fitting. Weighing in at 16 g including the hardware, the link acts as a simple extension of the derailleur hanger placing the rear derailleur far enough out to use up to a 40t cassette.
Meant to be used for road, cross, or gravel set ups the RoadLink will work for both Single and double ring cranks depending on the size of the cassette used. 11 speed drivetrains will be able to make use of new cassettes like the Shimano XT 11-40, while 10 speed groups can make use of cassette adapters like the WTC GC 40t. Roadlinks are only compatible with Shimano rear derailleurs with standard derailleur hangers. Double cranks will require a medium or long cage derailleur and triples are not supported. Lindarets also points out that due to the lack of clutch mechanism on road derailleurs, secondary chain retention systems maybe needed for aggressive riding.
Compatibility:
- 10s Cassette Compatibility:
- 11-32:Â Not Recommended
- 11-36: Single or Double Chainring
- 11-40: Single ChainringÂ
- 11-42:Â Not Supported
- 11s Cassette Compatibility:
- 11-32:Â Not Required
- 11-36: Single or Double Chainring
- 11-40: Single ChainringÂ
- 11-42:Â Not Supported
- 10-42:Â Not Supported
Available now through Lindarets for $21.95 including shipping, Roadlinks can also be bundled with a Special Edition Wolf Tooth GC40 and 16t cog for $99.95.