how do i fix bicycle gears?

Question

i got a hybrid bike in July.
on the right handlebar, i have 7 gears, these all work.

on the left i have 3 gears, i have a problem shifting
i can shift from 3 to 1 ok
i can shift from 3 to 2 ok
i can shift from 1 to 3 ok

but when i shift from 1 to 2.....i get a bunch of clicking.
like something is not in place.  this doesnt seem right.

i can shift from 1 to 3....then shift down to 2...and it works.

is the problem the shifter on the handlebar? or the thing directing the chain?
is there any way for me to fix this?

? · Accepted Answer

There is a barrel adjuster right where the cable comes out of the shifter.  You want to turn it out 1/2 turn at a time and try it.  That will move the derailleur out just a little more when you shift to a higher gear.

Cables stretch on a new bike and need adjusted once in a while.  Do not touch any screws !

You do not want to use certain gear combination it causes the chain to run at an angle.

left 1 use 1-3 right
left 2 use any gear on the right
left 3 use 5-7

Edit;
Chances are a simple adjustment will do it.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=front+derailleur+adjustment&sm=3

OldHippie · Answer

If bought from a REAL bicycle shop - it's under warranty.  Take it back to the shop for a FREE after-the-sale tune-up.  http://bigshark.com/about/policies-and-shipping-pg11.htm

Edit: Dick's Sporting Goods is NOT a bicycle shop.  It's just a generic, big box sporting goods store.  Not much better than Wally World.

how do i fix bicycle gears?

2 Answers