Bicycle shifting systems are located in spots of the bicycle that receive trauma most often. You can bump your gear shifting system as you put your bicycle into a bike rack, into the back of your truck or in a bicycle crash. When your gear system takes a trauma, it can cause issues with shifting. Most times these can be fixed with a few simple adjustments.
Derailleur Limits
The limit screws on your derailleur will define the maximum distance they will travel in either direction. If your shifter cable has proper tension and still fails to shift properly, the limits are likely to need adjusting. Shift your gears to the smallest cogs and adjust the limit screws marked "L" with a screwdriver until the derailleur does not rub on the chain. Shift to the largest gear and adjust the screws marked with an "H" in the same manner.
Shifter Cable And Cable Housings
Kinks and bends in your cable housings or shifter cables can cause serious issues when shifting. If your shifter feels sticky or is stuck, this is commonly the problem. You can easily replace your shifter cables and cable housings by releasing the cable stop on your derailleur, and removing the cable cap from your shifter and sliding the cables out.
Angle Adjustment
Your rear derailleur works on the premise of two spring-loaded pivots that work against each other to provide smooth, balanced shifting. This problem arises if the angle adjustment screws work themselves loose or if you change the length of your chain or the size of your chain wheels. Tighten or loosen the angle adjustment screw located on the rear derailleur with a screwdriver in alignment with the largest rear gear sprocket.
Front Derailleur Positioning
On occasion your derailleur will get knocked out of position. Your front derailleur should be parallel to the chain wheels. If your derailleur pushes into one of the chain rings, it needs to be raised.
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