Originally Posted by
Rowan
The intermediate click on the shifter is a trim function, used to move the front derauilleur every so slightly to stop chain rub when in the biggest or smallest cogs on the rear. It's not meant to be a triple-shifter.
(Shimano did do a triple shifter in Ultegra that was adaptable between doubles and triples -- I have one and it works quite well).
Sorry about the crank, but you at least have an alternative.
What I do like is your attitude. You're looking for solutions by experimenting. Keep asking the questions -- perhaps directing the more mechanical ones to the Bicycle Mechanics Forum -- and you will certainly keep on learning..
That almost certainly will make your bike riding much more enjoyable because you know you are more self-reliant.
Ah, I didn't know that about the trim function, though it does make sense. And self reliance is pretty much my objective - I want to be able to perform any necessary maintenence and simple repairs that might come up before I start doing tours longer than 1-2 days.