alohaboy

I did a search for a similar problem, but couldn't find one.
I've been riding the heck out of my new Allez Elite and have noticed something recently. Going from the small to big chain ring is really smooth, but trying to go from the big to small is a chore. I really have to push on the small lever, and even then I get a series of rough clicks, not a smooth shift.
The bike in only about 2 weeks old, so I'm sure the cables are starting to stretch and will be adjusted on my first free tune-up, but I wanted to see if it was something I could take care of on my own.
Thanks in advance.

rhyno

when the cables stretch it will be harder to get in the larger gear because you have to move it even further, have you ever messed with limit screws and/or barrel adjusters?

Albinus

He's experiencing problems heading towards granny gear, not the large chainring. Only thing I could think of is either the low limit stop has had a small adjustment inwards, or the derailleur alignment has had a small bump or something that has changed the cage angle somehow. A stretched cable won't affect shifting down to a smaller chainring

onbike 1939

I'd check the cage angle first as the above post suggested. I can't see it being a sticky cable in that the bike is new.

Gonzo Bob

Could be that a derailer adjustment is needed.

"I really have to push on the small lever" indicates it may be a malfunction in the lever.

Also, it's Spring and it could be dirt that is the culprit. The front derailer on my mt bike is pretty finicky when it gets dirty. It'll shift up to the big ring fine but may not shift back down at all without a tap or two from my toe. Shifts fine once I clean it up.

JSellers

Agree with what you and rhyno where getting at. most probably the limit screw or the barrel adjuster has been mess with tightening the cables. Look there first might not be the pushing hard on the lever just seems that way. Hard to tell about lever movement with out seeing so not ruling it out.

alohaboy

I've messed with the rear barrel adjuster, but not the front. I'm probably going to take it in to the shop this week to get the first checkup and adjustment, so I can just have them take a look at it then.
Gonzo mentioned dirt possibly being the problem, which brings me to another question. Are there certain things I should be doing after every ride, or every week to ensure that the bike runs great mechanically for years to come?

Albinus

Depends on your style of riding, and how hardcore you are. Personally, I make sure my bike is clean (damp rag) and the chain/derailleur pivots lubricated before I put it away. However I live in a marine environment and a lot of my "mud" is actually around mangroves, hence why I pay more attention than most. I also repack my bottom bracket and hubs at least once a month, once again due to the harsh environment.

niceguy

It really takes two "clicks" to move from the large chainring to the smaller one. The first one is for "trimming". Nothing wrong with that...