Can I adjust my rear derailleur upside down?

[Guest]

I have a question. I don't have a bike stand and I really need to adjust my rear derailleur. Is it possible to "just" flip it over? I don't have any lights permanently mounted on it because people steal the strangest things around here so there's no worry of anything being damaged.

[Alex Ramon]

Hi Erich,

You can't really adjust the rear derailleur when the bike is upside down because the chain won't pass through your drivetrain properly. I'd recommend <a href="http://forums.bikeride.com/thread-590.html">hanging your bike from the ceiling with some rope</a>, getting a friend to hold it up for you, or you can build your own repair stand.

A really inexpensive solution for minor adjustments might also be a bicycle display stand. They're meant to hold bikes up in a display room but they'll work great for what you need. See if your local shop has any spare or you can order this Minoura Bike Stand.

[Guest]

Thanks for your prompt reply and the links. I may just get that Minourads stand, as it would be more affordable than trying to build my own. Once again, thank you very much.