Bicycle Mechanics - Do I need to adjust my shifters now?

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smurray
06-07-08, 05:39 AM
I just installed some new grips and bar ends on my Trek 4900, and in doing so I had to move my brakes and my shifters a couple inches farther in on the handlebars. Do I need to make any adjustments now that I've done so? After I set everthing back up, I felt like it was harder to shift gears, but I could just be imagining things. Would moving the shifter in like that make any difference?

Retro Grouch
06-07-08, 06:12 AM
Generally just moving the shifter in the way that you describe will not make a readjustment necessary.

If, however, you've moved the shifter to the curve on a rider bar or if you've overtightened it, either can cause the shifter to bind and make it harder to operate.
smurray
06-07-08, 10:04 AM
how can overtightening it cause the shifters to bind? Isn't it just the clamp that attaches to the handlebar all that I'm tightening?

kellyjdrummer
06-07-08, 12:10 PM
I just installed some new grips and bar ends on my Trek 4900, and in doing so I had to move my brakes and my shifters a couple inches farther in on the handlebars. Do I need to make any adjustments now that I've done so? After I set everthing back up, I felt like it was harder to shift gears, but I could just be imagining things. Would moving the shifter in like that make any difference?

No and no.
Retro Grouch
06-07-08, 12:33 PM
how can overtightening it cause the shifters to bind? Isn't it just the clamp that attaches to the handlebar all that I'm tightening?

The shifter housing is usually just plastic. If you tighten it too much it will make the housing deform.