ATTENTION: This article deals with drivetrains built in 2007 or earlier! You can find out how to adjust current Campagnolo, SRAM or Shimano gears as well as electric shifting systems here here.
The latest road bike drivetrains are proof of the finest precision engineering - but only if they are precisely adjusted. The end of the winter break is a good opportunity to precisely align the rear derailleur and front derailleur once again.
Degree of difficulty: for talented hobby mechanics
Tool: 5 mm hexagon socket, slotted or Phillips screwdriver
Tip 1: Adjusting the gears requires patience. An assembly stand or a helper to lift the rear wheel is an advantage.
Tip 2: If the gears cannot be adjusted properly, this may be due to a lack of lubrication or unfavourable cable routing and therefore excessive cable friction.
Tip 3: If the shifting becomes imprecise during the ride, a (newly laid) cable has probably stretched. Minor corrections can be made on the go using the stop screws on the head tube or down tube.
Tip 4: After adjustment, check the shifting function during a test ride away from road traffic.
ADJUSTING THE REAR DERAILLEUR -
THIS IS HOW IT'S DONE
SETTING THE INVERTER -
THIS IS HOW IT'S DONE
