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You could get one of those automatic shifting hubs, then you wouldn't have to shift. I think they have an 11 speed one, but they are expensive.
Do you think you could use bar end shifters?
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05-29-2010, 07:42 PM #1
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MTB shifters and arthritic thumbs
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Hello: I ride a Specialized Stumpjumper. About 10 years ago, I had to switch to grip shifters from rapidfire due to pain from arthritis in my thumbs. Now, it's getting difficult to even use the grip shifters -- I basically stay in the middle front gear. Luckily I can still shift the rear gears. But -- something has to give!
What suggestions does anyone have? I never dreamed that what would finally make me think about giving up bike riding would be my thumbs!
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05-29-2010, 09:30 PM #2
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05-30-2010, 05:22 AM #3
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shimano is working on electronic mtn shifters/drivetrains. gonna cost you though. good luck!
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05-30-2010, 06:58 AM #4
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Bar End shifters, etc.
Thanks for the suggestions. It's worth an investment to continue almost 30 years of bicycling!
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05-30-2010, 07:32 AM #5
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There's always going back to downtube shifters... 50+ years of cyclists can't be wrong!
Speed comes from what you put behind you. - Judi Ketteler
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05-30-2010, 07:43 AM #6
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I assume that with downtube shifters, you have to take your hands off the handlebars to shift? That seems a scary proposition on a trail!
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05-30-2010, 07:08 PM #7
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OK a couple of suggestions here-
Go singlespeed! This may or may not be possible but you do get a weight advantage by taking off all the shifters etc.
Investigate equipping a cross bike with Di2 electronic shifters. You might be able to ride the trails you are riding now on a cross bike.
Or finally hang out for the MTB electronic shifting
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05-30-2010, 09:20 PM #8
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I have very short fingers. My thumb was too short to get enough leverage to get into the big ring. So on my first two mountain bikes I had a grip shift to control the chain rings.
But on my current bike, I use dual control levers. There is only one lever that controls shifting and brakes. Squeeze like a regular brake lever to brake. And flick the lever up and down to control gear shifting.
Some people don't like them, but I really do! Sure it took a little while to get used to them, but eventually it became second nature and natural.Bork Bork, Hork Hork!!
