Originally Posted by
johnknappcc
Also, if you don't want to invest in a pair of cable cutters (not so cheap), the shop would most likely cut the housings to length if you bring in the old ones. A good pair of wire snips will usually suffice for the cables themselves.
+1
for mentioning cable-housing. You will be wanting to get some of this to go with a cable - or two. I replace my gear-cables once a year. And I often change the color of cable-housing I'll put on.
Regards cable/housing cutters, this really is a vital tool if you're going to be working on your own bike. They cost a pretty=penny, but can last a lifetime. I recommend Shimano.