Brake lines, shift cables and handlebar remote controls are elementary components of a mountain bike. They transmit the rider's commands to the individual components. But when up to six cables leave the handlebars, it often reminds you of the tangle of cables under your desk. In the cockpit, the fewer the better. This principle of System integration manufacturers follow with their latest developments.
Single drivetrains save the front derailleur cable and still provide a sufficiently wide gear range. With the AXS wireless shifting system and the electronic Reverb Tele support, Sram has banished two more Bowden cables from the handlebars. And the recently introduced Flight Attendant automatic suspension makes a remote control for suspension control superfluous. A cleaner cockpit is not possible with today's technology.
Up to 6 batteries for component control
Digital transmission of brake commands is still more than just a dream of the future. Even if Sram's electric components theoretically make the Bowden cable superfluous, you need to have the necessary spare change for the electric versions. In addition to the lower costs, mechanical cables have other advantages: they do not need to be recharged and can be repaired on the road if necessary in the event of a fault. If you are travelling with electronic gears, a seat post and the new electronic suspension, you have to worry about the charge status of up to six batteries. That's annoying.
If manufacturers opt for conventional components, they at least try to conceal the cables as far as possible. Cables routed in the frame not only ensure a clean look, but are also better protected against wear and damage. However, if you want to replace your shift cable, you'll have a hard time. Fiddling the cables through the tiny openings in the frame takes time and nerves. The solution: Modern bikes often have built-in guides so that the cable can be threaded in at the top and simply pushed through.
The rear brake is more difficult. Even with a cable duct, the brake line must be cut in order to pull it through the frame. Our tip: Always leave the cables a little longer and cut them at an angle at the end. This makes it easier for them to find their way into the narrow outlets in the frame. Some manufacturers such as Canyon offer a more sensible solution. Here the cables run in an open cable duct on the down tube. This leaves them exposed when the cover is removed, but they are otherwise well protected, and the look is as stylish as with internally routed cables. Whichever way you look at it, plug-and-play style component replacement is virtually impossible with integrated solutions.
The costs
Time is money. At least in the bike workshop. If it takes longer to lay the cables, it will also be more expensive: 60 euros if laid internally, 40 euros if laid externally.
