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Mechanical gearsticks work with a Bowden cable and lever mechanism. For this reason, they can wear out and require corresponding care. In contrast, modern electronic controls with rechargeable batteries and servomotors are self-adjusting.
Battery
While Shimano and Campagnolo use a central battery for the entire power supply, SRAM has a button cell (CR2032) on the left and right of the shifters for the wireless connection to the shifters. The compartment can be opened with a coin.
End stops
Precisely adjusted limit stops are important. They limit the pivoting range of the rear derailleur and front derailleur between the smallest and largest sprocket or the small and large chainring. This ensures that the chain does not rattle and cannot jump off. The setting of the end stops should be checked and, if necessary, adjusted at the latest when replacing components in the drivetrain.
Gearstick cable mechanism
With older mechanical Shimano derailleurs, it often happens after a long service life that the gear cable mechanism snags due to resinified grease. A little WD-40 at this point makes the driver mechanism supple again.
Rear derailleur
If you haven't already put your road bike into hibernation well oiled, you should drip a few drops of oil onto the joints of the rear derailleur and front derailleur now at the latest. Shift through all gears several times so that the Lubricant gets everywhere.
Matthias Borchers
Editor
