Downtube Shifter Cables
 

Hi All, long time reader first time poster.
Just picked up an 80s Yamaguchi road bike, its in good shape just need new pads, cables and a good clean.
Since this is my first bike with down tube shifters and the cables are looking a little stretched and gross I'm just wondering if run of the mill modern shimano gear shift cables will fit in old shimano downtube shifters?
(yes I've tried google, but having a little trouble finding what I need)

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=343696
http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=343697

Yes, any "shifter" cable should work. Nice looking bike by the way. Welcome to the forums.

Thanks man :) I did find a nice image for anyone digging this thread up that illustrates the size differences if you're eyeing it off.

http://bikeforums.net/attachment.php...hmentid=343707

A. Shimano Brake Cable
B. Campagnolo Brake Cable
C. Mountain Brake Cable
D. Shimano Shifter Cable
E. Campagnolo Shifter Cable

Nice bike indeed. Since Shimano uses a larger barrel, you can use either shift cable (which is nice), and you'll notice right away if you accidentally try to use a brake cable. ;)

FWIW, downtube shifters seem to be really easy on shift cables, so there isn't much urgency to it unless the cables are already fraying. I'm morbidly curious to see how long I can make the rusty ones on my '91 Bianchi last. They might be original, for all I know!