GEAR CABLES

When you get a new pair of shifters they both have new cables, the front shifter doesn't really benefit from a new cable as much as the rear deraileur. So what I sometimes do is remove the new front gear shift cable to use at a later stage as new shifter cables are usually the same length and it could be used as a rear cable. You can use an old cable that you took from the rear shifter and cut it shorter for the front shift, the spring on the front deraileur is usually stronger and will cope with an older cable, make sure you give it a good clean and oiling before you thread it through. Before you remove a cable from the rear deraileur always snip it off, it will pull through easier and not damage the outer cable. Always try to crimp a cable end on after fitting a new cable, but don't get carried away with the crimpers, just one nip will keep it on, they can be used a few times if your careful. They save the cable from fraying, help them last longer and stop the cable from piercing finger ends, the sort of pain that lasts for a while.