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Old 06-05-12 | 02:59 PM
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tsappenfield
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Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 430
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From: Akron, OH

Bikes: 2008 Seven Axiom Steel, 1984 Colnago Nuovo Mexico, 2008 Cervelo P2C, 2000 Trek Multitrack 7200

Friction Shifting: What's the technique?

Over the winter I purchased a 10-speed road bike with Campy components in particular friction shifters and derailleurs. I've gotten my courage up (almost 70 years old, but in great shape) to start riding this bike. I haven't had a bike with friction shifters on the down tube since I was in my 30's and I just sort of figured out how to shift on my own by trial and error. My question is for all of you roadies/racers of yesteryear. What's the actual technique for shifting? In no particular order ...
1. Do you switch hands when you are shifting front vs rear derailleurs?
2. Do you place your fingers on the down tube to stabilize your hand when shifting?
3. Do you use your thumb and index finger to push/pull the shift lever forward and backward?
4. How to you shift and brake at the same time?
5. What else do I need to know technique-wise?

TSapp
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