By far the most common bike problem after a flat tyre is gear shifting. If you are keen to give it a go check out these You Tube clips which we reckon gives you a great starting point to learn how to adjust your own gears.
Our tips:
- Most gear shifting problems are caused by the gear cable: incorrect cable tension (too tight or too loose), poor condition of both the inner cable and outer cable housing (replace them for best performance).
- Derailleur hanger alignment: if your derailleur hanger (the bit that your rear derailleur bolts to) is not aligned parallel to the rear wheel no adjustment will make your gears run properly. This needs to be professionally realigned with a derailleur alignment gauge.
- Be careful not to kink your gear cables if replacing them.
- A bit of spray lube in the shifters and on the pivot points and springs of your front & rear derailleurs will keep things running light & smooth.
- Check the chain for stiff or bent links which will effect shifting.