Can't change gear on cassette (won't go up or down)

[si_c]

Maz - I have been quite content with the performance of my Drapertools Expert-190mm-Wire-Rope-or-Spring-Wire-Cutter (for about £15) [Cue discussion about how Draper tools are rubbish.]

Half my tools are Draper, largely because they were cheap and I use them once or twice a year, so longevity is not really an issue.

 

[si_c]

To the OP, I'd suggest getting a full set of gear cables, for both the front and rear, Lifeline ones from Wiggle are reasonably good and keenly priced. If you've got the rear shifting set up using brake outers then you probably have the front the same.

You won't need a new rear cable, but if you're replacing the front outers, then you may as well replace the inners too.

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

Maz - I have been quite content with the performance of my Drapertools Expert-190mm-Wire-Rope-or-Spring-Wire-Cutter (for about £15) [Cue discussion about how Draper tools are rubbish.]

Not from me - that looks a decent bit of kit and interestingly looks identical to the Ice Toolz ones SJS sell at the same price.

For what it's worth the cutters I have are Cyclo branded. They're alright but I've used better.

 

[confusedcyclist]

Here's a great step by step guide for setting up the RD.
http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-help/rear-derailleur-adjustment

 

[KneesUp]

Gear outers are too tough for my rubbish cutters, but I have a local independent bike shop, so I just take the old outers to him and he cuts it all to length as part of the cost of the outer. I prefer that to buying a relatively expensive tool that I will probably lose before I've used it much.

 

[Maz]

Maz - I have been quite content with the performance of my Drapertools Expert-190mm-Wire-Rope-or-Spring-Wire-Cutter (for about £15) [Cue discussion about how Draper tools are rubbish.]

Thanks, I bought a pair of Cyclo cable cutters. They work well, but I don't know what this very sharp point thing is for.

 

[Rickshaw Phil]

Thanks, I bought a pair of Cyclo cable cutters. They work well, but I don't know what this very sharp point thing is for.
View attachment 363883

I had to look it up as those are different to mine.

It's for opening up the ends of the outer cables after cutting apparently. A nice thought and saves you having to search round for something to do that with (a pen or pencil usually in my case)

 

[Maz]

All sorted now. Fitted GEAR Cable outers and the gears are shifting so much better now.
Thanks to all