Mountain terrain presents situations that call for quick and effective gear changes. In many cases, shifting gears at the front crankset provides immediate results because the sprockets are bigger than the rear sprockets. A double crankset has two chain rings, as opposed to three found on bikes with more gear selections. But shifting with too much force puts undo stress on the shifter, shift cable and the front derailleur. In addition, shifting too late can affect your speed and momentum. Shifting the double crankset correctly on a mountain bike requires touch and anticipation.
Familiarization
Step 1
Identify the first and second positions on the front shifter. Typically, the positions are designated by single-digit numbers that align with an indicator on the body of the shifter. Depending on the shifter, you shift by twisting the outer knob toward the desired position or moving the shift lever toward a position.
Step 2
Find a section of flat dirt road. Get the bike rolling and pedal at a slow consistent rate. Continue to pedal as you shift to the second position to move the chain onto the outermost sprocket on the double crankset.
Step 3
Continue to pedal and a slow consistent rate as you shift to the first position to move the chain onto the innermost sprocket on the crankset. You notice it's easier to pedal with the chain in the first position because the sprocket is smaller, allowing the pedals to make more revolutions.
Step 4
Pedal at a moderate rate. Shift from the first position to the second and back several times. Use progressively less force at the shifter each time to establish the minimum force needed to shift the chain between both sprockets.
Anticipating and Shifting
Step 1
Find a section of flat terrain that transitions to a subtle incline. Steeper hills require shifting the chain at the rear sprockets, as well. Chose a subtle incline to practice shifting the double crankset.
Step 2
Start pedaling toward the incline at a consistent rate and shift to the second position to move the chain on the larger sprocket. Increase your speed by pedaling harder.
Step 3
Anticipate shifting to the first position just as you start up the incline. Your goal is to shift using minimum force and maintain your speed by pedaling faster as you transition up the incline.
Step 4
Shift to the first position just before you transition onto the incline. Pedal faster and ride up the incline until it's hard to pedal. Turn around and start pedaling down toward the flat section. Immediately shift to the second position and continue to pedal. You notice the bike picks up speed because the larger sprocket generates more power.
Step 5
Continue to practice shifting to the first position as you transition to inclines. Practice shifting to the second position when going downhill to gain more speed. Use minimum force at the front shifter each time.
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