Originally Posted by
lineinthewater
Do you think it would help, just as a test, to run a huge length of housing straight out the back of the shifter and directly into the rear derailleur - eliminate everything in the middle? I doubt it will be any different - might even be more friction with the amount of housing. There will definitely be far less bends - just one giant sloping bend. LOL
You could certainly do that as an experiment. Basically what you are doing is getting a crash course in cause and effect. Doesn't even have to be a long cable.
1. remove the shifter from the handlebar..If possible place the shifter clamp over a dowel so you have some leverage to shift the shifter off the bike.
2. find 2-3 feet long scrap piece of cable and housing
3. connect shifter directly to rear derailleur
4. with bike on stand shift the shifter. My personal opinion based upon what you have disclosed is...it will shift the same as you previously experiencing. In other words, I believe your shift effort which you deem to be a bit high is due to the mechanical advantage...or lack thereof of your shifter and rear derailleur. Please post with your findings if you pursue this avenue.