TBatty

Okay, this is probably a little petty, but I want a rear derailleur with enough travel to shift across a 9 speed cassette, but still look period appropriate on a mid-80s bike. Will replace a Suntour ARX, and will be shifted friction, not indexed.

Thanks for any suggestions.

Panthers007

Find a 1980's Huret Duopar - either titanium or an eco. eBay would be the best bet.

Grand Bois

Why a Duopar? Why any long cage derailer? Nine speeds doesn't necessarily mean there's a lot of chain slack to pick up.

I think I bought the last titanium Duopar that was on eBay a couple of weeks ago. I've already traded it. It was just too ugly for my bike. The titanium parts are stamped and painted so it looks like cheap stamped steel. I'd rather put up with the mediocre shifting of my long cage NR than the ugly of the Duopar.

dokydoky

All Shimano indexed rear derailleurs are compatible with each other (except pre-1997 Dura Ace), so you have plenty of models to choose from that would actually be period-correct.

In fact, since you're using friction, that's not even a problem, but at least you know you could!

WNG

Lot's of MTB derailleurs that will work and look period 'correct'. Search for Deore DX, XT, LX. Shimano STX-RC. I bet most 90s Campy units will have enough swing to run 9spd. IMO, rear derailleurs have become all of the same 'mold' after Suntour's patent expired.

Sluggo

If a mid-80's duopar will shift 9-speed, why not the original mid-80's suntour? Did you try it?

BTW, my duopar does work on 9 speed, but just barely. Both stop screws are all the way out.

And as far as being ugly, Dirtdrop, so's your old lady. Or it takes one to know one. Or sticks and stones. Your long cage NR wears army boots. Duopars are not neither ugly!

RobbieTunes

Mid 80's? Shimano 600EX

RFC

Yes, Shinamo 600 RDs work very well and, IMLO, look very good.

TBatty

Thanks for the responses, gives me some idea what to look for.

I did try to get the Suntour to work, got the eight smallest cogs but not the big one.