Derailleurs play a crucial role in the smooth shifting of gears on your bicycle. Adjusting them correctly ensures seamless gear changes and optimal performance. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, knowing how to adjust your derailleur can save you time and frustration while out on the road or trail. This guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to adjust your derailleur properly and ensure your bike is running at its best.
Before diving into the adjustment process, it’s essential to understand the different components of a derailleur. The rear derailleur, located on the back of the bike, is responsible for moving the chain across the cassette, while the front derailleur, located near the pedals, controls the chain’s position on the chainrings. Each derailleur consists of two main adjustment screws: the barrel adjuster and the limit screws. The barrel adjuster fine-tunes the derailleur’s position, while the limit screws define the range of movement. By adjusting these screws, you can ensure that the derailleur shifts smoothly and accurately.
To begin the adjustment, it’s recommended to shift the chain to the largest gear in the cassette and the smallest chainring in the front. This will allow you to focus on adjusting the rear derailleur first. Using the barrel adjuster, turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to move the rear derailleur slightly so that the chain lines up perfectly with the gear. Next, shift the chain to the smallest gear in the cassette and adjust the limit screws. The low limit screw should be set so that the chain does not fall off the smallest cog, while the high limit screw should prevent the chain from going beyond the largest cog. Repeat this process with the front derailleur, ensuring that the chain lines up precisely with each chainring and adjusting the limits to prevent overshifting.
Identifying the Need for Adjustment
A properly adjusted derailleur ensures smooth and precise gear shifting on your bicycle. Here are some tell-tale signs that your derailleur may require adjustment:
Difficulty Shifting
If you experience difficulty shifting gears, with the chain slipping or hesitating, it’s a clear indication that your derailleur needs attention. The misalignment between the derailleur and the cassette may be preventing the chain from engaging correctly.
Noisy Shifting
Excessive noise during gear changes is another symptom of a poorly adjusted derailleur. A properly tuned derailleur should shift quietly and smoothly. If you hear grinding or clicking sounds, it’s likely that the derailleur is out of alignment and needs adjustment.
Chain Rubbing
When the derailleur is not adjusted correctly, the chain may rub against the cassette or the derailleur cage. This friction can cause premature wear and tear on the components, resulting in reduced efficiency and increased noise.
Chain Drop
A misaligned derailleur can cause the chain to drop off the cassette or onto the frame. This can happen when the derailleur is not providing the necessary tension on the chain. Chain drops can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, necessitating immediate adjustment.
Delayed Response
If you notice a delay or hesitation when shifting gears, it’s an indication that the derailleur is not responding efficiently. This could be due to improper cable tension or a misalignment of the derailleur.
| Symptom | Cause |
|---|---|
| Difficulty Shifting | Misalignment between derailleur and cassette |
| Noisy Shifting | Improper alignment |
| Chain Rubbing | Misalignment or insufficient tension |
| Chain Drop | Insufficient chain tension |
| Delayed Response | Improper cable tension or misalignment |
Inspecting the Derailleur
Before attempting any adjustments, inspect the derailleur to identify any visible issues that may require attention. Observe the following key components:
1. Derailleur Hanger
Check if the derailleur hanger, where the derailleur mounts to the frame, is straight and undamaged. A bent hanger can cause alignment problems and prevent smooth shifting.
2. Pulley Wheels
Examine the derailleur’s pulley wheels, which guide the chain to ensure smooth movement. Look for any signs of excessive wear, cracks, or excessive wobble. Dirty or misaligned pulley wheels can also affect shifting performance.
To inspect the pulley wheels thoroughly, consider the following table:
| Component | Potential Issues |
|---|---|
| Upper Pulley Wheel | Excessive wear, cracks, or loose bushings |
| Lower Pulley Wheel | Excessive wear, cracks, or misalignment |
| Pulley Wheel Cage | Bent or misaligned, affecting chain movement |
3. Derailleur Cable and Housing
Check the derailleur cable and housing for any signs of fraying, kinks, or rust. Examine the cable tension, ensuring it is not too loose or too tight. Worn or damaged cables can cause shifting problems and reduce the derailleur’s responsiveness.
Tools Required for Adjustment
1. Allen Key Set
An Allen key set, also known as a hex key set, is used to adjust the derailleur mounting bolts and other screws. The size of Allen key required depends on the specific derailleur model.
2. Screwdriver
A screwdriver is used to adjust the derailleur limit screws, which determine the maximum and minimum range of the derailleur’s movement. A Phillips-head screwdriver is typically used for most derailleurs.
3. Chain Tool
A chain tool is used to adjust the length of the bike chain. This is necessary if the derailleur is shifted incorrectly or if the chain is damaged. Check out the steps on how to use a chain tool:
- 1.
- Position the chain tool over the link you want to remove
- Squeeze the handles to force the pin out of the link
- Remove the link from the chain
Steps to Adjust the Derailleur with a Chain Tool
- 1.
- Shift the derailleur to the smallest cog on the cassette.
- Using the chain tool, remove a few links from the chain.
- Shift the derailleur to the largest cog on the cassette.
- Add links to the chain until the derailleur is shifted to the correct position.
- Tighten the chain tool to secure the new chain links.
- Clean the Derailleur: Dirt and grime accumulate on the derailleur, hindering its smooth operation. Regularly clean it using a degreaser and a soft brush.
- Lubricate Regularly: Apply a drop of chain lube to the derailleur’s moving parts, such as the jockey wheels and pivot points. This reduces friction and enhances shifting efficiency.
- Check Cable Tension: Over time, the cable that connects the shifter to the derailleur can stretch, affecting shifting performance. Regularly check its tension and adjust as needed.
- Inspect Cables and Housing: Worn or frayed cables and housing can cause shifting issues. Inspect them periodically and replace them if necessary.
- Chain Not Shifting Smoothly: Adjust the cable tension or check if the chain needs replacement.
- Chain Skipping or Jumping: This could indicate a worn or bent derailleur cage or improperly adjusted limit screws.
- Chain Rubbing on Derailleur: Adjust the B-screw or limit screws to ensure proper alignment.
- Derailleur Not Moving: Check the cable connection or inspect the shifter for any issues.
- Excessive Noise While Shifting: This could be due to worn or dry parts. Clean and lubricate the derailleur.
- Ghost Shifting: This refers to shifting without input from the shifter. Check the cable tension and ensure that the limit screws are not loose.
- Derailleur Hanger Misalignment: If the derailleur hanger is bent, it can affect shifting performance. It should be realigned or replaced.
- Limit Screw Adjustment: Adjustment of the limit screws determines the range of gears the derailleur can reach. Follow the specific instructions for your derailleur model to set them correctly.
- B-Screw Adjustment: The B-screw adjusts the distance between the derailleur’s guide pulley and the largest cog. It ensures proper chain alignment when shifting to the largest gear. The correct setting varies based on the derailleur model, so refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Improper cable tension
- Misaligned derailleur
- Damaged derailleur or cable
- Worn chain or sprockets
4. Cable Cutter
A cable cutter is used to cut the derailleur cable if it is too long. This is necessary if the derailleur is not shifting correctly or if the cable is damaged.
5. Tape Measure
A tape measure is used to measure the length of the derailleur cable. This is necessary to ensure that the cable is the correct length for the derailleur to function properly.
Adjusting the Barrel Adjusters
Barrel adjusters are small screws located on the derailleur body. They are used to fine-tune the alignment of the derailleur and to ensure that the chain moves smoothly between the gears. To adjust the barrel adjusters, follow these steps:
1. Shift the bike into the highest gear (smallest cog).
2. Turn the high-limit barrel adjuster clockwise until the chain just begins to rub against the outer edge of the smallest cog.
3. Shift the bike into the lowest gear (largest cog).
4. Turn the low-limit barrel adjuster counter-clockwise until the chain just begins to rub against the inner edge of the largest cog.
Once the barrel adjusters are properly adjusted, the derailleur should be aligned correctly and the chain should move smoothly between all of the gears.
**Here is a table summarizing the steps for adjusting the barrel adjusters:**
| Step | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| 1 | Shift the bike into the highest gear (smallest cog). |
| 2 | Turn the high-limit barrel adjuster clockwise until the chain just begins to rub against the outer edge of the smallest cog. |
| 3 | Shift the bike into the lowest gear (largest cog). |
| 4 | Turn the low-limit barrel adjuster counter-clockwise until the chain just begins to rub against the inner edge of the largest cog. |
Fine-Tuning the Cable Tension
Once the initial setup is complete, you may need to make fine adjustments to the cable tension to ensure optimal shifting performance. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Check the B-Screw
The B-screw is located on the rear derailleur and adjusts the distance between the upper pulley wheel and the cassette’s smallest cog. If the B-screw is too far in, the chain will rub against the cog, causing noise and poor shifting. Conversely, if the B-screw is too far out, the chain may drop off the cog under load.
| B-Screw Adjustment | Result |
|---|---|
| Screw in | Shortens the distance between pulley wheel and cog, reducing chain rub |
| Screw out | Lengthens the distance, preventing chain drop but potentially causing chain rub |
Step 2: Adjust the Barrel Adjusters
Barrel adjusters are located on the derailleur cable housing near the shifter. Turning them clockwise increases cable tension, while turning them counterclockwise decreases it. Make small adjustments (1/4 to 1/2 turn at a time) while observing the shifting performance.
Step 3: Check the Shifting Index
The shifting index is an alignment mark on the derailleur cage and the cassette. When the index marks line up, the derailleur is in the correct position to shift smoothly. If the marks don’t line up, adjust the cable tension until they do.
Step 4: Test Ride and Repeat
After making adjustments, test the bike on a short ride to check if the shifting has improved. If not, repeat the process until the shifting is precise and effortless across the entire gear range.
Setting the Limit Screws
1. Shift the Chain to the Smallest Cog
On the front derailleur, shift the chain to the smallest chainring. For the rear derailleur, shift to the highest gear.
2. Locate the Limit Screws
The limit screws are usually located near the pivoting points of the derailleur. On the front derailleur, they are typically marked “L” and “H” (low and high). On the rear derailleur, they are marked “B” and “L” (barrel and lock).
3. Adjust the Low-Limit Screw
Turn the low-limit screw clockwise to move the derailleur towards the inside of the frame. This will prevent the chain from falling off the smallest cog or chainring.
4. Shift to the Largest Cog or Chainring
Shift the chain to the largest cog on the rear derailleur or the largest chainring on the front derailleur.
5. Adjust the High-Limit Screw
Turn the high-limit screw counterclockwise to move the derailleur towards the outside of the frame. This will prevent the chain from overshifting and coming off the largest cog or chainring.
6. Double-Check the Adjustment
After adjusting the limit screws, it’s important to double-check the alignment by shifting through all the gears and ensuring that the chain is moving smoothly and not rubbing against any parts of the derailleur. If necessary, make small adjustments to the limit screws until the shifting is precise.
| Limit Screw | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Low-Limit | Move derailleur towards the inside of the frame |
| High-Limit | Move derailleur towards the outside of the frame |
Diagnosing and Correcting Shifting Problems
7. Troubleshooting Specific Shifting Problems
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Chain jumps off the front chainring | Front derailleur misalignment, chain too long | Adjust front derailleur position, shorten chain |
| Slow or sluggish shifting | Dirty derailleur, worn cables, bent derailleur hanger | Clean derailleur, replace cables, adjust or replace derailleur hanger |
| Multiple shifts required to shift into a gear | Tension in shift cable, derailleur indexing | Adjust cable tension, re-index derailleur |
| Shifting only partway | Stuck shift cable, bent cable housing | Lubricate cable, replace cable housing |
| Gears slipping or skipping | Worn chain, worn cassette or chainring | Replace chain, cassette, or chainring as necessary |
| Gears grinding | Misaligned derailleur, bent derailleur hanger | Adjust derailleur, adjust or replace derailleur hanger |
| Chain rubbing against the cage of the derailleur | Rear derailleur misalignment, bent derailleur hanger | Adjust rear derailleur position, check derailleur hanger alignment |
Maintaining the Adjusted Derailleur
Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the optimal functioning of your derailleur. Here are some tips to keep it in pristine condition:
1. Clean the Derailleur: Regularly remove dirt and grime from the derailleur using a soft brush or cloth and a degreaser. This prevents build-up that can hinder smooth shifting.
2. Lubricate the Derailleur: Apply a few drops of bicycle chain lube to the derailleur’s moving parts, such as the pulleys and pivots. This reduces friction and ensures smooth operation.
3. Inspect the Chain: A worn or stretched chain can impair shifting performance. Inspect the chain regularly and replace it if necessary.
4. Check the Cable Tension: The cable tension directly affects the derailleur’s shifting accuracy. Ensure the cable is taut enough to provide a crisp shift but not so tight that it binds the derailleur.
5. Adjust the Limit Screws: The limit screws prevent the derailleur from overshifting and damaging the chain. Adjust these screws to restrict the derailleur’s travel in both directions.
6. Fine-Tune the Barrel Adjuster: The barrel adjuster is a small screw located on the cable housing that allows for precise adjustments to the derailleur’s position. Use this to fine-tune the shifting performance.
7. Check the Derailleur Hanger Alignment: A misaligned derailleur hanger can affect the derailleur’s ability to shift properly. Use a derailleur hanger alignment gauge to check and adjust the alignment as needed.
8. Professional Inspection and Maintenance: For optimal performance and to prevent premature wear, it’s recommended to have your derailleur professionally inspected and serviced by a qualified bike mechanic at regular intervals. This involves a thorough checkup, cleaning, lubrication, and any necessary adjustments to ensure your derailleur operates flawlessly.
| Professional Inspection and Maintenance | Benefits |
|---|---|
|
Thorough checkup and cleaning |
Removes dirt and grime, preventing build-up and improving shifting |
|
Lubrication of all moving parts |
Reduces friction and ensures smooth operation |
|
Adjustment of cable tension, limit screws, and barrel adjuster |
Optimizes shifting accuracy and precision |
|
Inspection of derailleur hanger alignment |
Ensures proper derailleur positioning and prevents misalignment issues |
|
Identification and repair of potential problems |
Prevents premature wear and prolongs derailleur lifespan |
Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for a well-functioning derailleur. Here are some essential steps to maintain its optimal performance:
Troubleshooting
If your derailleur is malfunctioning, follow these troubleshooting tips:
Troubleshooting Common Derailleur Issues
1. Difficulty Shifting Gears
Check the derailleur cables for tension or damage. Adjust the cable tension or replace the cables if necessary. Clean the derailleur and lubricate the moving parts.
2. Gears Slipping
Inspect the derailleur hanger for alignment and straighten it if needed. Check the chain for wear or damage and replace it if necessary. Adjust the derailleur’s limit screws to prevent overshifting.
3. Ghost Shifting
Ensure the derailleur is properly secured and all bolts are tightened. Adjust the cable tension slightly to eliminate any slack in the system.
4. Chain Rubbing on the Derailleur
Check the chainline by ensuring the chainring and cassette are aligned. Adjust the derailleur position to optimize the chain alignment.
5. Shifter Not Returning to Its Place
Inspect the shifter cable for damage or fraying. Replace the cable if necessary. Adjust the barrel adjusters on the shifter to ensure the correct spring tension.
6. Derailleur Bent or Damaged
Check the derailleur for any physical damage and straighten or replace it as needed. Ensure the derailleur hanger is properly aligned.
7. Noisy Derailleur
Clean the derailleur and lubricate all moving parts. Check for any loose bolts or screws and tighten them as necessary.
8. Hard or Loose Shifting
Inspect the shifter cable for tension and damage. Adjust the cable tension or replace the cable if necessary. Clean the derailleur and lubricate the moving parts.
9. Derailleur Not Moving
Inspect the derailleur cable for damage or fraying. Replace the cable if necessary. Check for any seized or bent components and repair or replace them.
10. Advanced Troubleshooting
Use a derailleur alignment tool or a string gauge to ensure precise derailleur alignment. Check the chain length and replace it if too short or too long. Replace worn or damaged cassette cogs or chainrings. Adjust the brake calipers to avoid interference with the derailleur.
How To Adjust Derailleur
A derailleur is a bicycle component that moves the chain from one sprocket to another, allowing the rider to change gears. Derailleurs are typically adjusted by turning a small screw or knob located on the derailleur body. However, the specific adjustment procedure will vary depending on the type of derailleur and bicycle.
To adjust a derailleur, first, shift the chain to the smallest sprocket on the cassette. Then, turn the adjustment screw or knob clockwise until the chain moves to the next sprocket. Continue turning the adjustment screw or knob until the chain is properly aligned with the sprocket. Once the chain is aligned with the smallest sprocket, repeat the process for the remaining sprockets on the cassette.
It is important to note that derailleur adjustments are often very sensitive, so it is important to make small adjustments and test the shifting before making any further adjustments. If you are not comfortable adjusting your derailleur yourself, you can take your bicycle to a local bike shop for assistance.
People Also Ask About How To Adjust Derailleur
Why is my derailleur not shifting properly?
There are several reasons why a derailleur may not be shifting properly. Some of the most common causes include:
How can I tell if my derailleur cable is too tight?
If your derailleur cable is too tight, you will notice that the chain has difficulty moving from one sprocket to the next. You may also hear a clicking or grinding noise when shifting gears.
How can I tell if my derailleur cable is too loose?
If your derailleur cable is too loose, you will notice that the chain slips or jumps when shifting gears. You may also notice that the derailleur is slow to respond when shifting gears.
How often should I adjust my derailleur?
The frequency with which you need to adjust your derailleur will vary depending on how often you ride your bike and the conditions in which you ride. However, it is generally recommended to adjust your derailleur at least once a year.
