QUICK FIX TIPS Index your gears

1

If your shifting is ropey, the first thing to check is that the bolt securing the rear mech to its hanger is tight. Use a 5mm Allen key (or a T25 Torx for some SRAM mechs) to turn it clockwise until snug. Also check that the mech hanger and mech itself are straight.

2

With the bike in a workstand or upside-down, turn the cranks with one hand and shift into the smallest cassette sprocket. Have a look at the inner gear cable as it enters the mech. If it’s under tension, turn the barrel adjuster on the shifter fully clockwise so it goes slack.

3

The mech’s upper jockey wheel should now sit in-line with the smallest sprocket. If it doesn’t, use a Phillips screwdriver (3mm Allen key for some SRAM mechs) to adjust the screw marked ‘H’. Turn it clockwise to move the mech towards the wheel or anticlockwise to move it away.

4

Turning the cranks, push the mech towards the wheel with your hand until it’ll go no further. If the upper jockey wheel isn’t in-line with the largest sprocket, turn the screw marked ‘L’ clockwise to move the mech away from the spokes or anticlockwise to move it towards them.

5

Still turning the cranks, use the shifter to shift the chain up and down the cassette. If it’s reluctant to shift into the bigger sprockets, turn the barrel adjuster on the shifter anticlockwise. If it’s reluctant to shift into the smaller ones, turn the barrel adjuster clockwise.

6

Still not shifting properly? Shift into the smallest sprocket, wind the barrel adjuster fully clockwise and then back it o two full turns. Loosen the mech’s cable clamp bolt (5mm Allen key, anticlockwise), pull the cable through with pliers until taut, then retighten. Repeat step 5.

7

If you still can’t get your shifting feeling sweet at every part of the cassette and in both directions, it’s likely that sticky cables are to blame. Worn-out gear cables cause friction that creates havoc with your shifting. In this case, replace the cables, then repeat step 5.