3 x 8 transmission woes - what to do?

[Madmax1993]

Re:

I would think twice before running a full length outer, as whilst it will keep the inner clean and help your buzzing noise, it will also increase friction. I see it loads on cheap tat full suss bikes. The long outer cable run makes a bad set up even worse.
3x8 Shimano is still available new, although as it becomes less popular, I guess shops won't carry the stock, but it's still possible to order 8 speed sti shifters from Madison (the Shimano distributor).

 

[mattr]

TBH, i meant that open routing is better. Less outer to drag and opportunity to pop the outer sections off and give it a clean.
An enclosed run will give the same performance for longer. But i doubt whether that performance will be good enough.

An exposed run will deteriorate faster, but when it's new or you've given it a clean. It'll be far better. You'll just need to keep it clean. And do a very "proper" install, properly cut and finished outers, smooth bends and so on. Maybe even cable oilers on longer runs.

And i sold my tandem 15 years ago, i don't have a buzz problem anymore.

Thumbies are (essentially) down tube shifters on the handlebars.

http://www.microshift.com.tw/SL-A08_shifters.html
http://www.microshift.com.tw/SL-A08_city_shifters.html

These are 8 speed, they are also available in 9, 10 and 11. But not 7.

 

[LittleSkink]

thanks folks! I am investigating thumbies as a s/h option (new ones like Microshift seem way pricey) but failing that have found some budget options for brand new shifters

Shimano Altus
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Brand-New-a-p ... rmvSB=true

or a slightly more interesting Microshift variant, also about £20
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Microshift-3- ... SwSlBYyrqh

or I can probably get some s/h 3 x 8 Alivio about £20 (or new for £30+) but are they worth the extra?

anyone got good experiences/views on these?

 

[xerxes]

Re:

Sturmey Archer make some 8 and 9 speed thumb shifters:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_odkw= ... p;_sacat=0