Newbie question: Problem with index gears
 

Hi

I've just returned to the world of biking after a long absence and am new to the world of index gears (it has been a LONG time since I rode)

Anyway, I have a problem with the rear derailer. Its a seven cog set and I can select every gear except the fifth (3rd smallest). If I change down from 6th to 5th its stays in 6th.

Can anyone give me some pointers on what I might need to adjust or a good guide that may help before I launch myself at it with a screwdriver?

Any help greatly appreciated

stu ...

without having more info about your shifting systems, you might look at:

http://www.parktool.com/repair_help/FAQindex.shtml
http://bike.shimano.com/services/tech_info_a.asp

michael

Your derailleur hanger sounds like its bent... ususally I've found if the shifting is inconsistent (sticking AND jumping) or I can dial every gear except one or two, the hanger is slightly bent. That being said and not be able to look at the bike it could be cable tension as well, or a bad shifter. It would help to know what kind of bike it is and what derailleurs/shifters its running.

Just to see if it helps, try turning the barrel adjuster on the rear derailleur 1/4 turn in the direction you are having problems shifting.