So this isn't the latest and greatest but it is Sram's "XT" version of a cassette and I found it a B*tch to install. Its a picky mofo that needs the splines to be put exactly in place in order for the thing to be clamped down by the end cap. I thought I had it set in correctly twice and then...wobbly wobble. I had to take all 4 parts off and align them again. I recently installed a new XT for my old 9 speed XC bike last week, and no problemas. Seems like SRAM's PG980 wouldn't be a pick for on a XC racer's pit crew. Your thoughts on a PG980. Photo: upside down Lenz PBJ after PG980 install.
Isn't the 980 like the 970 where all the cogs are just pinned together? For the money on 9 spd stuff these days, there is no reason to not get a 990, which has most of the cogs on a spider(ala Shimano XT).
The 980 has 2 bodies, a spacer and two cogs....I've read reviews on the 990 and for whatever reason, they wear out faster. I'd actually love to get XTR cassettes but can't seem to plug the trigger on spending $219 for one.
I wouldn't get XTR either.....but at this point a 9 spd XT and a 990 cassette cost about the same....never had an issue with either one. Both seem to last.
