Originally Posted by
andrewclaus
I'll add a tip to make your upcoming inspections easier, but it only works if your cable housing is routed through a slotted frame cable stop. Shift into the largest sprocket (front or back), stop pedaling, then shift into the smallest sprocket position. This will give enough slack to pull the housing out of the frame stop. Squeeze the brake lever to expose the cable entrance hole. Push the cable out of the shifter to inspect for broken strands. This way you can retain all shifting adjustments.
Also, if you find yourself turning a barrel adjuster every few weeks to keep shifting smoothly, that's a sign the cable is fraying.
I do this inspection on many of the service write ups I do, preferably in front of the customer. You should see their eyes open up if the cable is starting to fray... I've taught this to so many mechanics (sadly including some that were "experienced" ones) as a way to show the customer their bike and your understanding of it and how you assess the bike before quoting costs. Andy.