Topic starter
I've just been looking to get a replacement SureShift for the eldest's bike only to find that they have disappeared with the demise of Moore Large. Anyone ever seen something similar from a different brand? We've found them to be really handy things to have for small hands getting used to gears
Child's hand for illustration only, not OP's or OP's child
Posted : 20/09/2023 2:12 pm
Can't you just move the shifter inboard of the brake lever? Or am I missing something the yellow bit achieves beyond that?
Posted : 20/09/2023 2:15 pm
Topic starter
Can’t you just move the shifter inboard of the brake lever? Or am I missing something the yellow bit achieves beyond that?
In that particular example you'll be chopping off the window (a very important thing when you're about 5 years old). Lower end shifters often aren't designed to go outboard, so you can end up with an awkward angle, and you're also not going to have 1 finger braking being used to need plenty brake lever out there. The Sureshift also increases the leverage on the paddle, which makes a significant difference too
They are also a larger target, and being colourful makes it very handy for reminding them to change gear
Posted : 20/09/2023 2:20 pm
I solved this by changing the shifters to windowless ones, often from RetroBike in 7/8/9sp XT or XTR flavour.
Posted : 20/09/2023 4:46 pm
Topic starter
Running outboard of the lever is a no-go, window or not. Really stubby brake levers so they’re right at the grips
Posted : 20/09/2023 10:52 pm
What about a grip shift instead?
Would making your own from sugru work?
Posted : 21/09/2023 7:55 am
Topic starter
What about a grip shift instead?
Wash your mouth out!
Would making your own from sugru work?
That could be a possibility though. Never actually got round to playing with sugru, but could be worth a shot
Posted : 21/09/2023 8:57 am
Surely this is what a 3d printer is for? There are probably files available online that you can download and print. You don't even need a 3d printer! Our local library has one that can be used, I assume for a fee.
Posted : 21/09/2023 1:40 pm
Topic starter
Surely this is what a 3d printer is for?
funny you should say that. Via the wonder of social media I’m now in touch with another dad looking at the same problem. He’s just printed one, but of course every Shimano lever model is a unique shape. If I can get him dimensions it looks like he might be able to print a few for me!
Posted : 21/09/2023 1:47 pm
Pretty sure i've seen them on some of the 3D printing libraries.
Posted : 21/09/2023 2:06 pm
As above, a blob of Sugru - maybe a layer of bartape as a pad, then cover with yellow heat-shrink?
Posted : 21/09/2023 2:44 pm
Do those extended levers mean it's less pressure to activate, but significantly more 'travel' for a small thumb or finger?
I found that XT or XTR old shifters and brakes were both lighter action and easy to move brake levers really close to grips - both a win for small hands...
Posted : 21/09/2023 2:49 pm
Topic starter
Lighter action - yes.
More travel - also yes but never been an issue. Would only be an issue if wanting to drop several gears at once and maybe not getting the last click
Posted : 21/09/2023 2:52 pm
matt_outandabout reacted
Surely the perfect thing for small children would be Di2 or AXS? Then it’s just a button rather than a lever. 😉
Posted : 21/09/2023 5:17 pm
mashr and matt_outandabout reacted
Topic starter
Need to leave something for Santa to bring!
Posted : 21/09/2023 7:17 pm
