STI Shifters and Chain Drop

[HillSlugger]

During the first road ride on my Specialized Sequoia Elite I had a few times where the chain dropped between crank rings while shifting from a smaller to a larger ring. It's my first time using this kind of shifter. So, my question is: do you think it's me or the adjustment of the shifter? Perhaps I'm not pushing the shifter far enough? I'm not having any problem with the small lever, going from bigger to smaller. So, again, do you think it's more likely my shifting technique or a problem with the shifter adjustment?

Thanks, Nicole

[Triskeliongirl]

It could be either. Do you understand that sti levers have two clicks, one to move the gear, and one to trim with. You could be pushing too far (2 clicks) causing the chain to drop, or it could be badly adjusted. If the LBS isn't too far, maybe the easiest is to drop by and ask them to show you how to shift correctly and/or have them check the adjustment.

[HillSlugger]

It could be either. Do you understand that sti levers have two clicks, one to move the gear, and one to trim with. You could be pushing too far (2 clicks) causing the chain to drop, or it could be badly adjusted. If the LBS isn't too far, maybe the easiest is to drop by and ask them to show you how to shift correctly and/or have them check the adjustment.

No, I didn't know about "2 clicks" Can you tell me what you mean by "one to move the gear, and one to trim with"?

Thanks!

[Triskeliongirl]

It may depend which group you have, but what I mean is that you can push it gently or hard, and as you push ore it will move the chain over. Depending on how its been adjusted sometimes the gentle push will move it onto the next ring, and if you push more it will fall off, but sometimes you need to push more. Its really hard to explain online so I think its easier to have someone show you.

[Triskeliongirl]

FYI, trim means the ability by giving a gentle push to move the derailleur just a little bit without actually changing rings, for example to avoid the chain hitting the derailleur when the chain is crossed, or nearly crossed.