How to Adjust a Rear Bicycle Derailleur

Adjusting a rear bicycle derailleur is a simple process that can improve the shifting performance of your bike. Here are the steps to adjust a rear bicycle derailleur:

1. Shift the bike into the highest gear: Start by shifting the bike into the highest gear using the shifter on the handlebars.

2. Check the alignment of the derailleur: Look at the derailleur from the rear of the bike and make sure that it is in line with the smallest rear cog.

3. Adjust the high limit screw: Use a Phillips head screwdriver to adjust the high limit screw on the derailleur. Turn the screw clockwise until it stops. Then, back it out one-quarter turn.

4. Shift into the lowest gear: Shift the bike into the lowest gear using the shifter on the handlebars.

5. Check the alignment of the derailleur: Look at the derailleur from the rear of the bike and make sure that it is in line with the largest rear cog.

6. Adjust the low limit screw: Use a Phillips head screwdriver to adjust the low limit screw on the derailleur. Turn the screw clockwise until it stops. Then, back it out one-quarter turn.

7. Shift through the gears: Shift the bike through the gears using the shifter on the handlebars. If the bike is not shifting smoothly, adjust the barrel adjuster on the derailleur. Turn the barrel adjuster counter-clockwise to shift the chain to a larger cog and clockwise to shift the chain to a smaller cog.

8. Fine-tune the shifting: Once the bike is shifting smoothly, fine-tune the shifting by adjusting the barrel adjuster until the shifting is crisp and accurate.

9. Check the alignment again: Make sure that the derailleur is still aligned with the rear cogs. If it is not, adjust the barrel adjuster again until the derailleur is properly aligned.

10. Test ride: Take the bike for a test ride to make sure that the shifting is smooth and accurate.

By following these steps, you can adjust the rear derailleur on your bicycle and enjoy smoother shifting while riding.