Uniglide and brake lever question
 

Hey Guys,

First off, how difficult is the shifting on the uniglide system. I'm pretty much stuck with it from what I understand, so I might as well get used to it (I haven't had a chance to ride the bike yet)

Secondly, What options for brake levers do I have with regard to the tourney centerpulls that are equipped. I'd like to go with an aero set, such as the older dura-ace levers, but I want to make sure it's compatible with the calipers.

Thanks

you can use any brake levers you want, so use the dura-ace. the bike should already have the necessary cable housing stops in place to accommodate centerpulls. The difference between uniglide and hyperglide is that uniglide does not shift as smoothly under tension. You know how on old friction systems it's better to let up on the pedals while shifting? Well Uniglide will shift smoother if you do that than if you are pounding away. I usually let up anyway as I don't like putting that strain there. The only time I am thankful for new shifting systems is on grueling hill climbs. Like the ones I did the last 2 fridays here in vancouver up out north shore mountains. These are situations were you are crawling up and letting off the pedals is going to slow you down too much and loose momentum (well if I even have any).

Shifting on uniglide is very difficult. First you have to reach for the shift lever, which is usually on the downtube, so your hand actually comes off the handlebars, then move it forward or backwards. Move it one click for one gear, two clicks for two gears, etc.

Sorry, couldn't resist.

I've been riding uniglide for over 20 years, never had a problem shifting, even on climbs. Granted, the climbs where I'm at aren't that long or steep. I usually pick a gear and mash on up.

Aero brake levers shouldn't be a problem, although they may not pull as much cable as whatever you have on now, so you may have to adjust them more carefully.

I agree that it works perfectly fine. In fact I almost like the way uniglide shifts better. It has a more solid engagement feeling and the cogs are very durable. I guess the action is heavier (as opposed to lighter action of hyperglide) which makes it feel more solid and I like that.

You guys are awesome, thanks for the help. It's refreshing to find a forum that is full of knowledge, instead of prepubescent teenagers.