8spd - 7spd compatibility?

[grogee]

Got some 8spd lx shifters. Does anyone know if they're backwards compatible with a 7spd cassette? I know 7spd thumbies can be used with 8spd cassette but not sure if the reverse is true...

 

[minor_LEGEND]

Yeah, just be sure to set the high & low stops on the derailleur properly. Obv you will have 1 index ident's worth of slack at the end of the shifter clicks that the derailleur will not use.

 

[Loki]

This article will set you up. http://sheldonbrown.com/derailer-adjust ... #alternate

 

[hamster]

It sort-of works. The 8 speed will move the mech 4.8mm per click, but a 7 speed needs 5.0mm. The float in the top jockey will take up most of the eorror, until it all gets muddy and dirty.

So it works, but is tetchy and definitely not optimal. If you have a collection of garage queens that you ride only in the dry and lick clean afterwards it's fine. In the real world it is annoying.