The rear derailleur refers to the component of the mountain bike that shifts or derails the chain between the various size sprockets. According to Web Mountain Bike, the right shifter controls the rear derailleur. When riding up a steep hill, the rear derailleur allows you to shift the chain to the smallest sprocket. The rear derailleur may need adjusting after you ride on a rough mountain trail.
Step 1
Rotate the pedals of your mountain bike forward. Utilize the right shifter to move the chain to the largest sprocket. Examine the guide pulley of the derailleur to determine if it rubs against the sprocket.
Step 2
Tighten the tension-adjusting screw, known as the B screw, to move the pulley away from the sprocket. Rotate the pedals while shifting the chain to the smallest sprocket. Check the tension of the derailleur's lower cable.
Step 3
Turn the adjuster counterclockwise to ease the tension on the derailleur's lower cable. Rotate the pedals forward while examining the alignment of the chain on the smallest sprocket. Tighten the H screw to prevent the chain from sliding onto the axle.
Step 4
Rotate the pedals forward while shifting the chain back to the largest sprocket. Examine how the chain has been aligned on the largest sprocket. Tighten the L screw to prevent the chain from sliding into the wheel spokes.
Things You'll Need
- Phillips screwdriver
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