Classic & Vintage - Shimano 6 speed bar end shifters?

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Antipodes
10-25-07, 04:11 PM
So, I pulled a set of 6 speed bar end shifters off an old MTB that came into the shop today.
Has anyone ever seen 6 speed Shimano units like these? Most definitely only 5 clicks, which means 6 speeds. They appear almost identical to the 8 speed version I have on my touring bike. I was hoping that they'd be at least 7 speed, 'cause I want a set for my girlfriend's touring bike.
I thought the whole indexed bar end thing started at 7 speed?....

melville
10-25-07, 04:46 PM
So, I pulled a set of 6 speed bar end shifters off an old MTB that came into the shop today.
Has anyone ever seen 6 speed Shimano units like these? Most definitely only 5 clicks, which means 6 speeds. They appear almost identical to the 8 speed version I have on my touring bike. I was hoping that they'd be at least 7 speed, 'cause I want a set for my girlfriend's touring bike.
I thought the whole indexed bar end thing started at 7 speed?....

Shimano index bar ends came out in 1989 and were distinctly seven speed. To run 6 speed, they came with a plastic insert to put in the cable groove to get more travel per click. If you got them off a 6S bike and they worked there, dig the insert out of the groove to go 7. Yes, they do look identical to the 8S stuff. Maybe just a difference in the greytoned finish?
endo shi
10-25-07, 05:07 PM
Maybe they were 6 speed downtube shifters adapted to bar end with barcon pods. I have done this before.

Antipodes
10-25-07, 06:07 PM
Shimano index bar ends came out in 1989 and were distinctly seven speed. To run 6 speed, they came with a plastic insert to put in the cable groove to get more travel per click. If you got them off a 6S bike and they worked there, dig the insert out of the groove to go 7. Yes, they do look identical to the 8S stuff. Maybe just a difference in the greytoned finish?

They were on a 7 speed bike, but obviously not as original equipment. They are not downtube shifters adapted for bar ends. They look exactly like my 8 speed bar ends.
This is very interesting, because they are definitely only 6 speed. I can only get 5 clicks no matter what way the shifter body is installed in its housing, though there is some travel after the last click. However it doesn't seem to be enough for an extra gear, and there is no audible click. Also, there is no plastic insert installed in the cable groove...