Changing from 8 to 7 speed

Champo said:

I've bought new wheels that take a 7 speed hub - my shifters (Shimano
Acera) are 8 speed.

Is this a problem?

Thanks in advance.

Usually its not a problem. 7 and 8 cog speed spacing are very close.
Usually 8 speed shifters will shift a 7 speed cassette very well. I
have three bikes like this myself. If you set the limit screws on the
rear derailleur properly then your shifters will not make that last
"click".

Tom

Champo said:

I've bought new wheels that take a 7 speed hub - my shifters (Shimano
Acera) are 8 speed.

Is this a problem?

Well, assuming you can fit the wheel in your dropouts (which shouldn't
be a problem), you shouldn't have any problems. There are a couple
caveats.

First, 7 speed wheels are generally 126mm across between the dropouts, 8
speed are 130mm. Most bikes won't have a problem with that. Though if
you have an aluminum or carbon frame I'll defer an opinion on the
wisdom of that.

Second, make *sure* that your 'high' rear derailleur screw is adjusted.
The shift spacing on seven and eight speed is the same, however you have
one more click. So if the screw isn't adjusted right, you could click
one too many times and shift your chain into the spokes. Which is
*bad*. If you have the screw adjusted correctly, you just won't be able
to click that last click.

--
Dane Buson - [email hidden]
"I changed my headlights the other day. I put in strobe lights instead! Now
when I drive at night, it looks like everyone else is standing still ..."
-- Steven Wright