I just installed a (my first) set of Simplex bar ends on a bike that previously had a set of Simplex retrofrictions. The derailleurs are Simplex Super LJs'.
It was a very precise shifting machine before I installed the bar ends. The bars ends seem just plain hard to pull and a bit imprecise. Obviously they lack the retro spring action but it is worse than just that. I know "close to prefect" cable lengths are always an issue in getting brakes to be solid vs. mushy. Do I just need to find that perfect length with the bar ends - or will they always be a bit mushy and imprecise compared to downtube levers due to the extra loop of cable?
"- Bob -" <[email hidden]> wrote in message news:[email hidden]...
Quoted message said:
I just installed a (my first) set of Simplex bar ends on a bike that previously had a set of Simplex retrofrictions. The derailleurs are Simplex Super LJs'.
It was a very precise shifting machine before I installed the bar ends. The bars ends seem just plain hard to pull and a bit imprecise. Obviously they lack the retro spring action but it is worse than just that. I know "close to prefect" cable lengths are always an issue in getting brakes to be solid vs. mushy. Do I just need to find that perfect length with the bar ends - or will they always be a bit mushy and imprecise compared to downtube levers due to the extra loop of cable?
Imprecise shifting in cycle gear mechanisms usually is a result of "play" in the cable runs. This is not play in the typical sense, but that which occurs when the outer cable shanges shape, and thus length, due to the changing tension. "Indexed" shifting mechanisms frequently reduce this by using a different outer cable construction.
If you are using the correct (for the period) outer cable, then yes, finding the right length of outer cable sections such that they move little if at all when you operate the shifter will help. There is likely to be more play simply because the cable run is longer, and you may have to decide if your shifting skill is sufficient to cope.
I just installed a (my first) set of Simplex bar ends on a bike that previously had a set of Simplex retrofrictions. The derailleurs are Simplex Super LJs'.
It was a very precise shifting machine before I installed the bar ends. The bars ends seem just plain hard to pull and a bit imprecise. Obviously they lack the retro spring action but it is worse than just that. I know "close to prefect" cable lengths are always an issue in getting brakes to be solid vs. mushy. Do I just need to find that perfect length with the bar ends - or will they always be a bit mushy and imprecise compared to downtube levers due to the extra loop of cable?
I use fingertips on all my way too many bikes including 2 with Simplex and all mine shift very well indeed. Using modern index style housing and cables-you may need a tandem for the rear-is the single best step that you can tale. And don't try to jam a modern cable end into the Simplex lever. It wants a smaller end. Just gently file the end down, being careful not to nick the cable. Good luck. Phil Brown
I just installed a (my first) set of Simplex bar ends on a bike that previously had a set of Simplex retrofrictions. The derailleurs are Simplex Super LJs'.
It was a very precise shifting machine before I installed the bar ends. The bars ends seem just plain hard to pull and a bit imprecise. Obviously they lack the retro spring action but it is worse than just that. I know "close to prefect" cable lengths are always an issue in getting brakes to be solid vs. mushy. Do I just need to find that perfect length with the bar ends - or will they always be a bit mushy and imprecise compared to downtube levers due to the extra loop of cable?
Did you install a "demultipliceur" when you installed the Simplex bar-ends? This improves the action and was part of the original Simplex bar-end package.
Did you install a "demultipliceur" when you installed the Simplex bar-ends? This improves the action and was part of the original Simplex bar-end package.
I didn't do that... in fact, I always wondered what these actually were for. I'll play with the cables a little and try installing one of those.
As to the cable housing type: I've been using lined brake cable housing as I figured that was the best combination of stiffness and slickness. Is that a bad idea ?
Did you install a "demultipliceur" when you installed the Simplex bar-ends? This improves the action and was part of the original Simplex bar-end package. John ([email hidden])
It doesn't really improve anything. In the typically French way it actually reduces cable pull at the RD, allowing a greater range at the lever. Frankly I've used them with and without and it doesn't make a difference. Phil Brown
As to the cable housing type: I've been using lined brake cable housing as I figured that was the best combination of stiffness and slickness. Is that a bad idea ?
Yep, it's a bad idea. Shift cable housing is stiffer, but not as strong as brake cable housing. The brake housing might be the cause of your sloppy shifts, especially if you have long runs of housing. And most bar end shifter installations do have a long run of housing at the handlebars.
-- Dave dvt at psu dot edu
Everyone confesses that exertion which brings out all the powers of body and mind is the best thing for us; but most people do all they can to get rid of it, and as a general rule nobody does much more than circumstances drive them to do. -Harriet Beecher Stowe, abolitionist and novelist (1811-1896)
