A gear cable on a mountain bike often gets rusted due to exposure to harsh weather conditions. Fortunately, changing the gear shifter cable is easy.
Read on to learn how to change a gear cable on a mountain bike before setting off on your next adventure.
Steps On How to Change a Gear Cable on a Mountain Bike
To replace the bike shifter cable, make sure you have cable cutters, Allen keys, and a new cable ready. Then, begin with:
- Shift to the hardest gear to move the derailleur (the part that moves the chain) to its furthest position.
- Loosen the bolt that holds the cable on the derailleur to remove the old cable.
- Cut the cable at the shifter to completely remove it.
- Loosen the clamp on the derailleur to free the cable and take it out.
- Remove the cover or port at the shifter to access the cable.
- Gently push the derailleur to check its movement and adjust the limit screws if needed.
- Feed the new cable through the shifter.
- Hold the outer part of the cable at the derailleur and pull the inner cable to remove any slack.
- Slide the small protective cap (ferrule) onto the inner cable and feed the outer cable into the derailleur.
- Tighten the cable at the derailleur using a torque wrench to 4-7 Nm (tight, but not too tight).
- Check that the cable is routed correctly, pull it tight, and clamp it in place.
- Cut off any extra cable and crimp the end to prevent fraying.
- Adjust the barrel on the shifter to make sure the derailleur lines up with the gears.
- Fine-tune the tension of the cable for smooth shifting between gears.
- Replace the dust cap on the shifter to keep it protected.
Conclusion
Mountain biking is both thrilling and risky, so it is essential to stay protected from potential hazards such as slow gear cable shifting (which can ruin your ride), accidents, and theft. Before investing in a new mountain bike, make sure to learn how to perform minor repairs and replacements that are needed frequently.
A comprehensive bike insurance plan will provide financial coverage for damages incurred due to accidents or unforeseen circumstances, keeping you safe and allowing for a stress-free riding experience.
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