Cable Stretch

After installing new cables or buying a new bike, the cables tend to stretch after a few uses. So here’s some tips on how to fix that problem.

1. Pre-Stretch your cables. Basically once you install your cables, shift your rear derailleur to the largest cog (30 or 32t). Let it sit for 30 minutes. Then shift down to the smallest cog on the rear and then shift the front derailleur to the largest chain ring. Again, let it sit for 30 minutes.

2. Go for a short ride around the neighborhood. Once you’d done step one, take it for a ride. See if it shifts properly. If it doesn’t, give it a good tune up.

3. Wait. That’s right wait. After steps 1and 2, repeat step 1 again, But this time, leave both derailleurs shifted to the biggest cog/chain ring over night.

Yeah I know, you’re not supposed to have your chain in that position, but that’s ok. It’s not like you’re riding it. It’s just sitting in your garage…stretching out it’s cables.

4. Repeat step 2. Give them a tune up, again…Nothing major, just turn the adjuster barrel on the derailleur or on the shifter in half turns. Keep turning until you get it dialed in just right.

Hope that helps!