Is it possible to switch the cables on a shimano gear shift?

Question

I just picked up my new bike today, a Kona Dr Dew, and the gear selector for the rear derailleur seems backwards. I am accustomed to pushing with my thumb to go to a higher gear, and pulling with my finger to go to an easier gear.

The chain wheel selector is set up to what I think is correct (push w/thumb for bigger chain wheel) but the gear selector on the right side is the opposite.

Very confusing. Any information is greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Charles,

I think what you're experiencing is the difference between a "top normal" rear derailleur and a "low normal" (aka "Rapid Rise") rear derailleur.

A "Top normal" RD is designed so that the derailleur naturally wants to move to the smallest cog.  Pushing the large paddle increases the tension on the cable and pulls the derailleur to the next larger cog.  The small trigger eases the tension and allows the derailleur to move back to the smaller cog under the natural tension of the derailleur spring.

It sounds like your Dr Dew has a "top normal" RD, which is pretty much standard equipment.  Your previous bike must have had a "low normal" or "rapid rise" derailleur, which worked in an opposite manner (push large paddle to move to smaller cog, pull small trigger to move to larger cog).

I believe Shimano makes both the Deore XT & XTR available in a rapid rise design.  If you're really annoyed by the difference, you should ask your LBS about switching out the derailleur for a small upcharge.

Answer 2

that is the way trigger shifters are meant to be. paddle shifts on road bikes are the same. when you think of shifting in terms of ratios, not in terms of cog size, it actually makes total sense. your forefingers trigger smaller (easier) gear ratios, your thumbs trigger larger (harder) ratios. I taught myself by equating it as point up (climbing), thumbs down (descending)..