Shifter replacement question

**runethechamp** · 08-16-2005, 01:09 PM

I'm a total mountain bike JONG so I need to figure something out. I have an old mtn bike, bought in 1994, no suspension whatsoever, with the old Shimano DX system all over. The bike works like a charm, but the rear shifer doesn't work very well anymore. I was thinking about getting a new one, but here's the (potential) problem: This bike is so old it only has a 7 speed rear casette. Does this mean I'm fucked since it seems impossible to get anything but 8 and 9 speed shifters these days? I guess I have a problem if the increments between the gears are different on the 7 speed than on the new 8 and 9 speed cassettes. Anyone know anything about this?

**bagtagley** · 08-16-2005, 01:14 PM

When did you last replace your cables? Could simply need new cables, or just clean and lube the shifter.

If it comes down to needing a new one, most bike shops will have a "crap" bin that's likely to have some old 7 speed stuff in it. From time to time, 7 speed stuff will pop up on Ebay and you could also ask around some of the bike forums (MTBR, Ridemonkey, etc.)

**UTdave** · 08-16-2005, 01:15 PM

You're screwed. sorry. Actually you can get cheap crappy 7 speed stuff still. Honestly, how much do you want to put into an 11 year old rigid bike? So it's either the cheap stuff or nothing. You might try some local shops see what they have in a beat up box covered in dust behind all of the other old crap it might just have your shifter. Anyway spacing on 7 is different than 8/9.

**runethechamp** · 08-16-2005, 01:27 PM

Originally Posted by bagtagley

When did you last replace your cables? Could simply need new cables, or just clean and lube the shifter.

The shifter lever doesn't take anymore, but that might fix itself if I clean it up. I'm not looking to spend a lot of money on the bike, just trying to keep it in working order, that's all.

**PlayHarder** · 08-16-2005, 01:28 PM

I've got a few old 7 speed shifters and deraileurs around, let me know and I'll send you a set.

**Viva** · 08-16-2005, 01:50 PM

You ought to be able to put an 8-speed rear derailleur on that bike. That'll allow you to use them thar 8-speed shifters.

I did this to my Diablo, which came 7-speed stock, 10 years ago.

**runethechamp** · 08-17-2005, 11:59 AM

Originally Posted by PlayHarder

I've got a few old 7 speed shifters and deraileurs around, let me know and I'll send you a set.

Cool, I'll send you a pm.

**mntlion** · 08-17-2005, 12:59 PM

you have to have same # shifter, cassette.

like others have said, try cables and housing first. $10 tops

then try the shifters,

then sell it and buy new as changing cassette, rings, shifters, chain is not worth it

**Spats** · 08-17-2005, 04:00 PM

Nashbar usually has plenty of 7-speed parts.

Remember: really cheap bikes all still have 7-speed drivetrains. You'll be able to get 7-speed grip shifts for many years to come.

However, +1 on replacing cables. Do your brakes as long as you're at it, cables cost about a buck each. Then start doing housing if shifting is still sticky...you may need to go to a shop if you don't have a cable cutter.