XCforever

I was wondering if I could convert the Dura ace BS77 bar end shifters that came stock on my crosscheck to downtube shifters while retaining index shifting for the rear. I somehow have the feeling that this can done but just want to know if anyone here has tried this before.

Puget Pounder

You sure can, just take the bar ends off the pods and install them on the downtube braze-ons. You may have to switch out the flat washers for some curved ones.

XCforever

Ah thanks. What do you mean when you say curved washers? I don't see any washers inside the bar end shifter assembly.

NukeouT

PM me if you want to sell/donate those bar ends and mb make some money torward new DT shifters.

XCforever

I can PM you but I stay far away in India and I'm guessing the shipping and duties might sour the deal for us both

TallRider

the curved washer is labeled #6 in this diagram. bar-end shifters come with a piece that serves the same function, but the backside is flat since it's fitting against the bar-end mounting body instead of against the downtube.
You should consider selling the DT shifters and buying real downtube shifters - you may come out ahead this way financially, and have a shifter that is longer and therefore easier to operate.

HillRider

You can use the flat base plates (#6 in the lower left box labeled "For Light alloy Frames" in TR's illustration) on any frame. They will leave a bit of a gap on small diameter downtubes but they will function properly.

FastJake

Bar end shifters > DT shifters.

Sell yours and buy some new Dura Ace DT shifters. You'll probably come out ahead. Why do you want DT shifters anyway?

matimeo

Yeah, I can't understand why you would want to make that switch.

XCforever

Um, okay... Didn't realise that the bar end shifters will end up small and difficult to shift. Thanks for the very detailed explanation Tallrider!! I wanted to do this if it was a direct mount on downtube to avoid cable clutter. But I guess since its not a direct fit, it doesn't make too much of sense keeping these smallish shifters on the downtube especially if I ride cross country.

HillRider

By "cross country" I assume you mean long distance touring, not mountain biking, right?

I've used both downtube and bar end shifters and am not particularly fond of either anymore but, of the two, barends are far more convenient. The ability to shift without taking your hands completely off the bars is an advantage, particularly on a loaded touring bike. "Cable clutter" is a small price to pay for that benefit.

XCforever

Lol no I mean singletracks and fireroads