To effectively clean shift levers, especially those found on bicycles, you must first gain access to the internal mechanism, then thoroughly clean out accumulated grit and dried grease using an evaporative degreaser. This process restores smooth shifting and extends the lifespan of your components.
Why Clean Your Shift Levers?
Over time, bicycle shift levers, also known as shifters, accumulate dirt, dust, and old, dried-up grease within their intricate mechanisms. This grime can significantly hinder performance, leading to sluggish, inaccurate, or even stuck shifting. Regular cleaning prevents premature wear, ensures reliable gear changes, and enhances your overall riding experience.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
Before you begin, gather the following items to make the cleaning process smooth and efficient:
- Evaporative Degreaser: A product like White Lightning Clean Streak is ideal because it evaporates quickly, leaving no residue.
- Clean Rags or Microfiber Cloths: For wiping away grime and protecting surfaces.
- Small Brushes: An old toothbrush or a dedicated detailing brush can help reach tight spots.
- Protective Eyewear and Gloves: To shield your eyes and hands from degreaser.
- Bike Repair Stand (Optional): Makes working on your bike much easier.
- Lubricant: After cleaning, you'll need a suitable bicycle chain or shifter lubricant.
- Hex Keys or Screwdrivers: If you need to remove grips or other components.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide
Follow these steps to thoroughly clean your shift levers:
1. Preparation and Gaining Access
- Secure Your Bike: Place your bicycle on a repair stand or lean it securely against a wall.
- Protect Surrounding Areas: Lay a rag under the shifter you're working on to catch drips and protect your handlebars, cables, and brake levers from degreaser.
- Gain Internal Access: For better access to the internals of the shifter mechanism, you may need to remove the handlebar grip on the side you're cleaning. This allows you to spray degreaser directly into the intricate parts.
2. Degreasing the Mechanism
- Apply Degreaser: Spray a generous amount of an evaporative degreaser, such as White Lightning Clean Streak, directly into the exposed shifter mechanism. Focus on areas where cables enter and where moving parts are visible.
- Agitate and Shift: As the degreaser works, repeatedly shift through all gears (both up and down). This action helps the degreaser penetrate deeper into the mechanism and dislodge accumulated grit and dried-up grease. You should see black, grimy liquid dripping out.
- Brush if Necessary: For stubborn buildup, use a small brush (like an old toothbrush) to gently agitate the grime within the mechanism.
- Wipe Away Excess: Use a clean rag to wipe away the dirty degreaser as it runs out of the shifter. Repeat the spray-and-shift process until the liquid running out appears clear, indicating that most of the grit and old grease has been removed.
3. Drying and Lubrication
- Allow to Dry: Since you're using an evaporative degreaser, it will dry quickly. You can assist this process by gently dabbing with a clean, dry cloth or allowing it to air dry for a few minutes. Ensure all degreaser has evaporated before proceeding.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Once completely dry, apply a few drops of a suitable bicycle lubricant to the internal pivot points and moving parts of the shifter mechanism. This replenishes the lubrication removed by the degreaser. Shift through the gears a few times to help distribute the lubricant. Avoid over-lubricating, as this can attract new dirt.
4. Reassembly and Testing
- Reinstall Grips: If you removed your handlebar grips, slide them back into place.
- Test Shifting: Operate the shifter through all its gears, checking for smooth and precise transitions. Make any necessary cable tension adjustments to fine-tune shifting performance.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
- Regularity is Key: Clean your shifters at least once a season, or more frequently if you ride in dusty, muddy, or wet conditions.
- Cable Maintenance: While cleaning shifters, it's a good time to inspect your shifter cables and housing for wear or fraying. Replacing worn cables can significantly improve shifting.
- Avoid Pressure Washing: Do not use high-pressure washers directly on your shifters or other delicate bike components, as this can force water and grime into sealed bearings and mechanisms.
By following these steps, you can keep your shift levers operating smoothly and reliably, ensuring an enjoyable and efficient cycling experience.
