When do you need to buy a new shifter for internal gears on a bicycle?

You may need to buy a new shifter for internal gears on a bicycle if your existing shifter is damaged, worn out, or no longer functioning properly. Signs that you may need a new shifter include:

• Stiff or sticky shifting: If the shifter is difficult to operate, or the gears don't shift smoothly and easily, it may be a sign that the shifter needs to be replaced.
• Loose or wobbly shifter: If the shifter feels loose or wobbly, or if it moves around on the handlebars, it may be time for a new shifter.
• Broken or damaged shifter: If the shifter is physically broken or damaged, or if any of the components are missing or worn out, you will likely need to replace it.
• Incompatibility with other components: If you are upgrading or changing other components on your bike, such as the rear hub or cassette, you may need to purchase a new shifter that is compatible with those components.

It's important to choose a shifter that is compatible with your specific hub or cassette, and to make sure that the number of speeds on the shifter matches the number of gears in the internal gear system. If you are unsure about which shifter to choose or how to install it, it's a good idea to consult with a bike mechanic or professional.

Shifters for internal geared hubs

Shifters for internal gearing on bicycles work by controlling the position of the internal hub or cassette in the rear wheel. Unlike external derailleur systems, which move the chain between different gears on the outside of the cassette, internal gear systems use a single chainring and a hub or cassette with multiple internal gears.

Here's how the shifter for internal gearing typically works:

The shifter is connected to a cable that runs to the rear wheel hub or cassette.

When the rider shifts the shifter, the cable is pulled or released, which moves the internal hub or cassette to a different gear.

Some internal gear systems use a twist shifter, where the rider rotates a grip on the handlebars to shift gears. Other systems use a trigger shifter, which has one or two levers that the rider presses with their fingers to shift up or down.

When the rider shifts up or down, the internal hub or cassette moves to a different gear ratio, which changes the resistance or ease of pedaling.

Internal gear systems are often found on commuter or city bikes, as well as touring bikes and some hybrid or mountain bikes. They are typically easier to use and require less maintenance than external derailleur systems, as they are less exposed to dirt, debris, and damage. However, internal gear systems are generally heavier and less efficient than external derailleur systems, and they offer fewer gear options.

Brands for internal gearing

There are several brands that make shifters for internal gearing on bicycles. Some of the most popular brands include:

Shimano: Shimano makes a range of shifters for internal gearing, including twist shifters and trigger shifters for their Shimano Nexus and Shimano Alfine hub systems.

SRAM: SRAM makes a variety of trigger shifters for their internal gear hub systems, including the SRAM i-Motion, SRAM T3, and SRAM T7.

Sturmey-Archer: Sturmey-Archer is a company that specializes in internal gear hubs and makes a range of shifters for their hubs, including Sturmey-Archer twist shifters, Sturmey-Archer trigger shifters, and Sturmey-Archer thumb shifters.

Rohloff: Rohloff makes a high-end internal gear hub called the Rohloff Speedhub, which is known for its durability and efficiency. Rohloff also makes a unique twist shifter for the Speedhub that allows for rapid shifting through all 14 gears.

SunRace: SunRace is a company that makes a range of internal gear hubs and shifters, including trigger shifters and twist shifters.

These are just a few examples of the brands that make shifters for internal gearing on bicycles. When choosing a shifter for an internal gear system, it's important to make sure that the shifter is compatible with the specific hub or cassette being used, and to choose a shifter that matches the number of gears in the system.