A few months ago, I would have never believed that I could change my own derailleur cables and adjust them. Well, I did it and the gears are moving more quietly and quickly than when I bought my bike two years ago. I'm kind of proud of it.

One reason all is running so smoothly and quietly is that I switched to Aztec cables. They are coated with teflon and the housings are lined with it. Also I spent a lot of time on in-the-garage and out-on-the-road adjustments. I could never have done the adjustments right with out the on-line instructions from Park Tool. My usual guide, Zinn and the Art of Road Bike Maintenance, was just too sketchy about what to do.

I also learned that Pony Clamps are great tools for holding the end of the cable when you've loosened the nut. Since the ends of the clamps are dipped in some kind of soft plastic, they hold tight without fraying the cable. They are a cheap tool: a medium-sized one cost me about $4. If the universe did fall apart, I think it really could be put back together with duct tape and Pony clamps.

Does anyone have some good tips on how to do a better job at installing and adjusting cables?

Does anyone have a tech website they like better than Park Tool's sight?

Is there a forum for wrenches and gearheads?



Rich