Pacific Cycle HF3305 manual Derailleur Gears, Operating Principles

Drivetrain	Derailleur Control
Freewheel	Cable
	Front Derailleur
Cogs

Front Chainwheels

Guide Pulley

Crank Arm

GEARS - HOW TO OPERATE

Derailleur Gears

Most multi-speed bicycles today are equipped with what are known as derailleur gears. They operate using a system of levers and mecha- nisms to move the drive chain between different sized driving gears or cogs. The purpose of gears is to let you maintain a constant, steady pedaling pace under varying conditions. This means your riding will be less

tiring without unnecessary straining up hills or fast pedaling down hill. Bicycles come with a variety of gear configurations from 5 to 27 speeds. A 5-6 speed bicycle will have a single front chainwheel, a rear derailleur, and 5 or 6 cogs on the rear hub. Bicycles with more

Rear Derailleur

17

Pedal

gears will also have a front derailleur, a front chainwheel with 2-3 cogs, and up to 9 cogs on the rear hub.

Operating Principles

No matter how many gears, the operating principles are the same. The front derailleur is operated by the left shift lever and the rear derailleur by the right. To operate you must be pedaling forward. You can not shift derailleur gears when you are stopped or when pedaling backwards. Before shifting ease up on your pedaling pressure. For a smooth gear change when approaching a hill, shift to a lower gear BEFORE your pedaling speed slows down too much. When coming to a stop, shift to a lower gear first so it will be easier when you start riding again. If, after selecting a new gear position, you hear a slight rubbing noise from the front or rear gears, gently adjust the appropriate shifter using the barrel adjusters until the noise goes away. For opti- mal performance and extended chain life, it is recommended that you avoid using the extreme combinations of gear positions (diagram p. 18) for extended periods.