Friction bar-end shifters?

Page may contain affiliate links. Please see terms for details.

SuperGalactian

Active Member
What’s your experience with these? Is it easy to diddle the chain into true alignment when you shift sprocket/gear, and does any inaccuracy in that regard cause noticeably faster wear of components? I’m trying to keep my upgrading options open whilst retaining bar-end shifters.
 
Last edited:

Webbo2

Veteran
What’s your experience with these? Is it easy to get the

Use to use them years ago when riding cyclocross my recollection is they don’t hold a candle to brifters.
 

All uphill

Still rolling along
Location
Somerset
What’s your experience with these? Is it easy to diddle the chain into true alignment when you shift sprocket/gear, and does any inaccuracy in that regard cause noticeably faster wear of components? I’m trying to keep my upgrading options open whilst retaining bar-end shifters.

I love the friction bar-end shifters on my Temple bike. They must be 40 years old and work perfectly . I'll be putting friction thumb shifters on my Spa soon.

For me the advantages are that they encourage a relaxed riding style, they don't go out of adjustment and they are cheap and simple.
 
I currently have 3x8sp, may have to replace this year with 9sp, and by the time that chain wears out it’s possible we’ll be forced to use 10sp.

(With the exception of my uncle's old Clockwork) all my derailleur bikes are 9 speed. Decent 9spd parts are still widely available. And very cheap compared to equivalents with higher sprocket counts. You'll not be forced to use 10 speed any time soon.
 
Top Bottom