With a few tools and some basic bike knowledge, you can convert your downtube shifters to STI shifters. The first step is to remove the downtube shifters from your bike. Next, you’ll need to install STI shifters.
This can be done by following the instructions that come with the shifters. Once the STI shifters are installed, you’ll need to adjust the derailleurs. Finally, you’ll need to fine-tune the shifting.
- Using a pair of needle-nose pliers, remove the retaining clip that secures the shifter cable to the downtube
- Remove the shifter cable from the downtube
- Using a pair of scissors, cut the shifter cable housing to the desired length
- Using a cable ferrule, secure the end of the shifter cable housing
- Thread the shifter cable through the STI shifter
- Using a pair of needle-nose pliers, secure the retaining clip that secures the shifter cable to the STI shifter
How To Convert From Downtube Shifters To STI Shifters (Brifters) On Vintage Bike
Are downtube shifters indexed?
Downtube shifters are most commonly found on road bikes. They are mounted on the downtube, which is the frame tube that runs from the bottom of the head tube to the bottom bracket. Downtube shifters are operated with one hand while the other hand is on the handlebar.
Downtube shifters are indexed, which means that they are designed to click into place so that you can shift gears smoothly. Indexed shifting is a precision shifting system that allows you to shift gears quickly and smoothly. To adjust an indexed downtube shifter, you will need to use a barrel adjuster.
A barrel adjuster is a small knob that is located on the shifter. To adjust the shifter, you will need to turn the barrel adjuster clockwise to tighten it, or counterclockwise to loosen it.
If your downtube shifter is not indexed, it is likely that it is a friction shifter.
How do you change gears with downtube shifters?
Downtube shifters are a type of shifter that is typically found on road bikes. They are called downtube shifters because they are mounted on the downtube of the frame. Downtube shifters are operated with your hands while you are riding and allow you to change gears without taking your hands off the handlebars.
To change gears with downtube shifters, you will need to use your left hand if you want to shift up a gear and your right hand if you want to shift down a gear. To do this, you will need to reach down and find the lever that is next to the appropriate gear shifting lever. For example, if you want to shift from the fourth gear to the fifth gear, you would need to reach down with your left hand and find the lever next to the fifth gear shifter.
Once you have found the correct lever, you will need to push it in the direction of the arrow that is printed on the shifter.
When did they stop using downtube shifters?
Downtube shifters were the standard way to shift gears on a bicycle for many years. But in the early 2000s, a new type of shifter began to gain popularity: the STI shifter (STI stands for Shimano Total Integration). STI shifters are mounted on the handlebars, near the brake levers.
They are easier to use than downtube shifters, and they allow you to keep your hands on the handlebars while shifting.
STI shifters became the new standard, and downtube shifters began to disappear. Today, you’re unlikely to find a new bike with downtube shifters.
But you can still find them on some older bikes, and on some bikes designed for touring or other types of long-distance riding.
What does STI shifter stand for?
STI shifters stand for Shimano Total Integration shifters. STI shifters are a type of bicycle shifter that is integrated with the brake lever. This design allows for more precise and easier shifting, as well as giving the rider more control over the bike.
STI shifters are most commonly found on road bikes, but can also be found on some mountain bikes and hybrid bikes.
Credit: forum.bikeradar.com
Sti shifters
There are many different types of shifters available on the market today, but one type that is becoming increasingly popular is the STI shifter. STI shifters are designed to provide a more precise and comfortable shifting experience, and they can be found on a variety of different vehicles.
One of the main benefits of STI shifters is that they offer a more positive and precise shift feel.
This is thanks to the fact that STI shifters use a ball-bearing detent system, which provides a more positive engagement between the shifter and the transmission. This results in a smoother and more precise shifting experience, which is especially beneficial when driving in performance applications.
Another advantage of STI shifters is that they are often much more comfortable to use than stock shifters.
This is thanks to the fact that STI shifters often feature ergonomic designs that put them in a more natural position for your hand.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to convert your downtube shifters to STI, there are a few things you’ll need to do. First, you’ll need to purchase STI shifter/brake levers. You’ll also need to purchase STI compatible brake cables and housing.
Once you have all of the necessary components, you’ll need to remove your old shifters and brake levers. Then, you’ll need to install the STI shifter/brake levers in their place. Finally, you’ll need to route the STI compatible brake cables and housing to the appropriate location.
With all of that done, you should be good to go!
