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Downshifting a Campy 53/39 Problem

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Downshifting a Campy 53/39 Problem

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Old 04-07-08 | 07:39 AM
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Downshifting a Campy 53/39 Problem

Good morning everyone,

I followed all of the directions when setting up my 2008 Centuar group (53/39) on my Cinelli frame.

Yesterday while out riding, I down shifted going up a hill, to the small front ring. I did not relax very much when I shifted. The chain fell off the small front ring and I had to stop to put it back on.

Is there something I need to check/adjust or technique I need to learn so this does not happen again?

I shifted up and down many times afterwards, relaxing when shifting in the front, and I did not have it happen a second time.

Thanks in advance
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Old 04-07-08 | 08:46 AM
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Make sure your limit screw is set correctly. There should only be about a 1 mm gap between the chain & derailleur cage when in the 39/ big gear in the rear. Also, adding a Deda Dog fang is good insurance, check out the pics from Tour of Flanders, even pro's bikes like to have a little insurance against dropped chains.
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Old 04-07-08 | 09:43 AM
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Also be sure your cable tension isn't too high.
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Old 04-07-08 | 09:49 AM
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It's easy to adjust your limit screws. They keep the derailleur from moving too far, so the chain won't fall off. Park Tool has a detailed derailleur adjustment page. Scroll down to "Front Derailleur - Adjusting L-screw".

You'll probably want to adjust the H-screw, too.
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Old 04-07-08 | 10:07 AM
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Even when everything is adjusted correctly an occasional chain drop will occur. I've just made it a habit of easing on my pedal stroke every time I downshift to the little ring. I can't remember how long ago I dropped my chain the last time.
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