User Guide

28
DERAILLEUR SHIFTING SYSTEMS
Introduction
Some Fisher bikes are equipped with a derailleur system. This system
consists of those parts of the bicycle which allow you to shift gears. The
derailleur system includes the front and rear derailleurs, the shifters or
shift levers, and the shift cables.
The different types of shifters covered here are RapidFire or E-Z Fire
shifters (Fig. 41, with one thumb-activated shift lever and one finger-
activated shift lever, both beneath the handlebars), and Twist shifters
(Fig. 42, where shifting is done by rotating a section of the handlebar
grip. See Figures 41-43 to determine which type of shift system you
have. Read the general information listed under (all systems) as well as
the specific information for your type of shifter.
The Shimano Nexus 7 speed shift system (Fig. 43) is not a derailleur
system. See Nexus information on page 34.
Shifting Pointers (all systems)
When shifting gears on a bicycle, plan ahead. Shift gears only when
the pedals and chain are moving forward. Never attempt to shift gears
when stopped or back pedaling. When you shift, reduce your pressure
on the pedals. Excessive chain tension makes shifting difficult. Avoid
shifting when going over railroad tracks or bumpy surfaces. The chain
may not shift properly or may fall off.
The left-hand shift mechanism controls the front derailleur and the
right-hand shift mechanism controls the rear derailleur. Shift only one
lever or shifter at a time. Choose the gear combination most comfort-
able for riding conditions. You should be able to maintain a constant
rate of pedaling. It is not essential that various gear combinations be
used in sequence.
Listen to your bike. A properly adjusted drivetrain and derailleur
system is quiet. If an unusual noise follows any shift, your derailleur
cable may need to be adjusted slightly (see the Adjustment section
for your shifter type). If, after adjustment, the noise persists or grows
louder, stop the bicycle and try to locate the noise. If necessary, ask
your Fisher dealer to identify and correct any problems. For more
information about your derailleur system read the following information
or see your Fisher dealer.
Lubrication (all systems)
Every month, lubricate all pivot points on both the front and rear
derailleurs, including the derailleur pulleys on the rear derailleur, with
Wrench Force
®
synthetic chain lube or similar lubrication. Lubricate
shift cables whenever they are being replaced. Follow the instructions
for shift cable replacement in the following information.
Fig. 39
Cable
Cable
clamp
bolt
Adjusting
screws
Fig. 40
Cable
Cable
clamp
bolt
Adjusting
screws
Adjusting
barrel
Fig. 41
Thumb trigger
Finger trigger