Originally Posted by
dddd
....
In fairness though, these derailers were designed when the much-stiffer old bushing chains were in use, when a large chain gap would have been much less of a problem in terms of shifting response. And here I am using narrower, more-flexible HG chain, with predictable consequence.
it does make a difference.
I took some photos a while back to illustrate the difference between the stiffness of an old 5 speed chain with bushings, versus a Sachs PC48 8 speed bushingless chain.
In the photos below, I just moved the shift lever forward, taking the tension off of the cable, allowing the derailleur spring to move the pulleys as far to the right as the chain flex would allow.
here's the 5 speed chain with bushings (the original chain on this 1974 Raleigh)...
and here's a Sachs 8 speed bushingless chain.....
It does make a difference.
However, the 8 speed chain also has features in the shape of the side plates that help it pick up teeth, and it's quite a bit quieter when shifting.
Steve in Peoria