Have questions or want to discuss cycling? Join Now or Sign In to participate in the BikeRide community.

New: Take Part in the May's Giveaway: Win the LIVALL PikaBoost 2 E-bike Conversion Kit


Rear Derailleur wont shift
#1
All of a sudden, the rear derailleur on my bike wont shift. I can move it manually by hand and the spring works fine. Adjusting the two screws makes no difference and the cable tension seems fine. On the handlebars when i try and turn the shifter it is solid as a rock, if i release the tension, it moves fine so I think all is ok at that end. Never seen this before and can't figure out what is wrong. All help appreciated.
  Reply
#2
You don't give makes or types, but I guess this is a rotary shifter, in my opinion, none of these work very well, but there is one around, usually fitted to bottom end bikes, which is almost impossible to move. Can't remember the make, but it has red lettering and gear positions.
Personally I would junk rotary shifters and fit almost any type of thumb shifter in preference.
But a new stainless wire and new outers may help, make sure that all bends are gradual and nicely curved.
  Reply
#3
Check out the cable.
Undo the inner cable at the derailleur and pull it out from the outer casing.
Look for loose strands or rust. Pull it out right up to the handlebar end.
Check that the dearilleur will move the full span of the cassette.
Check the changer also moves through its full range.
Ride hard or ride home alone!
  Reply


Possibly Related Threads...

Forum Jump:

[-]
10 Latest Posts
The great thing about trikes
Today 12:06 PM
Third best reason to ride a bent or trik...
Yesterday 05:59 PM
Biking with helmet laws
Yesterday 10:23 AM
Is anyone riding with music?
06-03-2025 09:15 PM
"There's been better times
06-03-2025 09:10 PM
What was your first bicycle?
06-03-2025 04:25 PM
Where are you from and What is your favo...
06-02-2025 06:22 PM
Effective Breathing Method I use to go u...
06-01-2025 11:50 PM
Attack // Force tire style narrow front ...
06-01-2025 12:47 AM
First long distance ride..
05-31-2025 10:33 PM

[-]
Join BikeRide on Strava
Feel free to join if you are on Strava: www.strava.com/clubs/bikeridecom

[-]
Top 5 Posters This Month
no avatar 1. Criminal
22 posts
no avatar 2. Flowrider
18 posts
no avatar 3. GirishH
17 posts
no avatar 4. rydabent
17 posts
no avatar 5. SPINMAN
12 posts