>I can't believe I've had so many problems with a new bike!<
So far you've listed all of two problems:
1.) Continued chain slipping/ not shifting in the front.
2.) Left shifter was stiff, sometimes got stuck and would not shift.
Your numbers 3 and 4 aren't problems. So remain calm.
Desmodici may be onto something.
>From now on I'm testing it before I put it in the car. Lesson learned.<
+1 to that.
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