In the course of some random surfing, I noticed that the latest generation of Shimano's mountain bike components uses the "rapid rise" or "low-normal" rear derailleur, which as I understands it reverses the action of the derailleur in response to a cable pull, i.e. pulling the cable produces an upshift rather than a downshift.

Has anyone experimented with this system on a road tandem? We, like many, use an 11-32 cassette that needs a mountain derailleur for the right cage length. Will my only choice be to learn how to shift backwards if I ever need to replace my rear derailleur? Any plans for Shimano's road shifters to adopt the rapid rise system?

DrPete

I currently use an XTR rapid rise rear derailler, and it has taken a bit of getting used to, as my solo is still normal. I do find it crisper on on changing down and would say that it is better.

I've been using Rapid rise on two of my mountain bikes for many years and very much prefer it. Perhaps it is coincidence that these are my best shifting bikes. I never looked for a rr road option as we tend to stick to trails on the tandem. It only take the first few shifts to adapt back to the shifting direction of a non-rapid rise equipped machine.