Road and gravel bike shifting

Road and gravel shifting comes in a variety of types, each with its own specifications and benefits. The most common types include:

Integrated shifting: This type of shifting combines the brake levers and shifters into one unit. It offers smooth shifting and easy reach without having to take your hands off the handlebars.
Handlebar-end shifting: These shifters are located at the end of the handlebars and provide a classic and clean look. They offer precise shifting and are suitable for road bikes.
Electronic shifting: These state-of-the-art shifters use electronic signals to change gears. They offer lightning-fast, precise shifting and automatic adjustment.

The benefits of quality shifting are numerous. They allow for smooth and precise gear changes, ensure efficient power transfer and consistent cadence. Before choosing the right shifting, check the compatibility with your bike's derailleur system, whether it's Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo.

How to choose shifting for a road or gravel bike?

When choosing a gravel or road gear, there are a few key factors to consider that will help you make the right choice:

Shifting compatibility: Make sure the shifting you choose is compatible with your derailleur. Different brands and models may have specific compatibility requirements, so check the manufacturer's recommendations before purchasing.
Shifting type: There are two main types of shifting, mechanical and electronic. Mechanical shifting uses cables to control the derailleurs, while electronic derailleurs use electronic signals to shift. Consider whether you prefer mechanical simplicity or the precision and fine-tuning options offered by electronic shifting systems like Shimano Di2 or SRAM eTap.
Brake and shifter integration: Some shifters are integrated with the brake levers, creating a cleaner, more uncluttered cockpit. These integrated shifters are commonly found on road bikes and offer convenient shifting and braking control with minimal hand movement. However, some riders may prefer separate shift and brake levers due to customization options and personal preference.
Number of gears: Make sure the shifters you choose are compatible with the number of gears in your drivetrain. Different models of shifters are designed to work with a specific number of gears, so make sure you choose the appropriate shifting for your drivetrain.
Ergonomics and comfort: Try different shifters to see which ones feel most comfortable and intuitive for your hands. Consider factors like reach, lever shape, and placement so you can shift gears easily while maintaining a comfortable riding position.
Budget: Consider your budget when choosing the right shifters for your bike. Higher-end shifters may offer more features and better performance, but they come at a higher price.

Are road bike gears compatible with gravel bikes?

In most cases, road bike shifting is compatible with gravel bikes if they have the same number of gears and are designed for the same drive type (e.g. Shimano, SRAM). However, some gravel-specific shifters may offer features such as better ergonomics or a wider gear range. Initially, gravel bikes were mainly equipped with road bike components. However, it quickly became clear that gravel shifting has slightly different requirements. In our offer you will find the Shimano GRX series, which is designed by the manufacturer for use on gravel.

Can I use mountain bike gears on a road or gravel bike?

Mountain bike derailleurs are typically not compatible with road or gravel bikes due to differences in cable pull ratios and derailleur design. Mountain bike derailleurs are designed for different gear ranges and shifting requirements, so it's best to use derailleurs designed specifically for road or gravel bikes.

What are the advantages of integrated brake and shift levers?

Integrated brake and shift levers combine the brake levers and shift levers into one unit, providing a cleaner, more uncluttered cockpit. This design allows for quick and easy shifting and braking without having to remove your hands from the handlebars, improving control and ergonomics.

Can I combine shifters with derailleurs from different brands?

While it is possible to mix derailleurs and shifters from different brands in some cases, it is generally recommended to use shifters that are designed to work with the other components of the drivetrain. Mixing and matching components from different brands can lead to compatibility issues and suboptimal shifting performance.

Check out our video "Mechanical or electronic shifting - advantages and experiences"