Why Your Bicycle’s Gears Aren't Shifting Smoothly (And How to Fix It)

Is your gear shifting slow, clunky, or just plain frustrating? You’re not alone. For many cyclists in India, especially those with bicycles in the ₹10k–₹30k range, unsatisfactory gear performance is a common and annoying problem.

While it’s easy to blame the derailleur or the shifters, the real culprit is often hiding in plain sight: the cables.

The Problem: Brake Outers for Gear Cables

A common cost-cutting measure on many budget and mid-range bicycles is the use of brake cable outer casings for gear cables.

What's the difference?

• Brake outers are designed to be strong and resist compression. They are less flexible, which is fine for braking, where the force is high and the movement is simple.

• Gear outers are specifically designed for precise, low-friction movement. They are often reinforced with a specific linear steel wire to provide a smooth, consistent path for the inner cable.

How to Check if the Bicycle has Wrong Gear Cable Housing

If you notice the gear cable housing looks similar to your brake cable outer, and has simple silver caps at the ends — its a tell-tale sign that your gear performance is being compromised.

The result? Your shifts are slow, inaccurate, and you're not getting the smooth, crisp performance your bike is capable of.

The Solution: Upgrade Your Cable Casings

The good news is that it is very easy & affordable to upgrade gear cable housing. By simply replacing your old, compromised outers with proper gear casings, you can drastically improve your bike's shifting performance.

At OMO Bikes, we offer a range of options to suit every budget and need:

• Premium Brands: We stock high-quality gear casings from top brands like Jagwire, Alligator known for their durability and superior performance.

• Affordable Alternatives: We also have generic, affordable options that still provide a significant upgrade over standard brake outers.

Upgrading your gear casings is one of the most cost-effective ways to get a better riding experience. It’s a "smart" upgrade that delivers a huge performance boost without breaking the bank.

Ready to get a smoother ride?

• Link to Cables & Housings — Click here 

• Or, speak to one of our bicycle experts on WhatsApp to find the right cables for your bike — Click Here