Kyle Brooks wrote:
> I recently picked up a pair of the old Shimano barcon shift levers --
> pre-indexing -- the ones that are spring-loaded. Not really sure about
> how to set them up. They can be completely disassembled, but it seems
> that depending on which way you install the spring, the lever will
want
> to gravitate/return to the "up" position, or to the "down" position (I
> don't currently have them hooked up with cables and derailleurs -- so
I
> don't know if that will change anything). And if I tighten the screws
> enough so the levers don't gravitate, then they won't move at all.
Does
> anyone on the list know the right way to set these up?
Set 'em up so they want to go to the Up position. This balances the spring tension in the derailleur, allowing you to set the friction lower than with a regular shifter.
The trick is you have to set the tension high temporarily while threading the cable. After the cable is clamped in the derailleur, then loosen the friction screw to taste. They can feel almost frictionless and still not slip.
I slightly prefer them over the Suntour ratchet myself, because the ratchet clicks (while not really objectionable) are not as elegant a solution as the balancing spring IMO.
Mark Bulgier
Seattle, WA USA