Replacing Derailleur

[JLZimrmn]

I currently have a Tiagra front derailleur on my 2005 specialized vita and I would like smoother shifting. (I have dropped my chain several times after climbing)

What would I need to know in order to upgrade? All of my other components are 105.

I guess my question is, are all Derailleur's compatible with my bike? I am specifically looking at Ultegra or Dura Ace.

[VeloVT]

you need to know if your bike requires a braze on derailleur or a clamp on derailleur... you'll be able to get either type in any of the groups though. It also makes a difference if you have a double or triple crankset (triple requires a longer der?), and **I think** (someone may have to correct me here) it makes some difference how many speeds you are running in back, because some der's are narrower/wider to accomodate different chain angles (that result from different rear-cog spacing) without rubbing. Not sure about this last though.

you should be able to find something compatible with your bike in each of the groups, but not every derailleur in each group will be an ideal choice, if that makes sense.

chain dropping (especially on a hill) can be related to adjustment (so it may not be something inherently wrong with your derailleur) and it can also very much be related to shifting technique. you really have to let up to get a good downshift while climbing. that said, I have a 105 triple fd on one of my bikes and, while it doesn't drop my chain when it's adjusted properly, it's also just a little sluggish and sloppy compared to my Ultegra triple fd.

[JLZimrmn]

Looks like mine is a clamp-on. Thanks for your help!

[Becky]

Looks like mine is a clamp-on. Thanks for your help!

Check the clamp diameter- they come in a couple of different sizes. A triple FD has a wider/taller inside plate to help deal with the difference in chainring size.

Like Liza said, it may just be an adjustment issue that can be readily fixed. All that's needed (usually) is a phillips head screwdriver, maybe a 5mm allen key, and lots of patience. Check out http://www.parktool.com/repair/readhowto.asp?id=75 for instructions :)

[JLZimrmn]

I have adjusted it and it did help but I still find that it is really hard to shift up from the small to middle chain ring.

I always thought that all of my components were 105 until I took a closer look and saw that this part was Tiagra.

Thanks for the feedback guys.

[HillSlugger]

You also need to check if it's top pull or bottom pull (the direction from which the cable attaches). I think most are bottom pull.

[SadieKate]

A Deda Dog Fang (http://www.competitivecyclist.com/road-bikes/product-chains/2008-deda-elementi-dog-fang-chain-guide-4180_1902_FALSE.html)can help also.

[JLZimrmn]

My bike actually came with a dog fang and the dang chain still dropped. Thanks everybody for the suggestions.

[SouthernBelle]

One thing I discovered on shifting 105 or lower into a higher ring on the front is to make sure that in the back you are at least in the middle of the cassette. It seems that if you are in the lower gears in the back, the chain angle encourages the drop. So I've made it a habit to shift up once or twice in the back before shifting up in the front.