Tri Tech Support: How To Set Your Rear Derailleur

Other culprits

In addition to maladjustment, these three problems can create sloppy shifting.

Component wear: Not only do chains wear out, but so do cassettes, chainrings and even shifters.

Dirty housing: Dirt and grease can get into the housing and prevent the cable from sliding freely. Swap your cables and housing yearly so they stay uninhibited.

Bent derailleur hanger: Rear derailleurs are mounted to bikes on a thin extension from the frame called a derailleur hanger. This piece can be bent, which ruins shifting. Bike shops have tools that can check and correct alignment.

Ian Buchanan is co-owner of Fit Werx (Fitwerx.com), with locations in Vermont and Massachusetts.

FILED UNDER: Gear & Tech TAGS: Rear Derailleur / tech support