Sluggish shifting on small chainring

[lasertip]

Hi guys,

I've just noticed that the rear derailleur shifting tends to be sluggish, but only when I'm on the small chainring.
Otherwise, it's nice, crisp shifting while on the large chainring.

I've tried adjusting tension using the barrel adjuster on the RD but it doesn't seem to help. Is it possibly a chain that's too long or do I just need new cables?

Thanks

[jules21]

define 'sluggish'

[lasertip]

define 'sluggish'

Like when I shift, I can feel the lever clicking into position but the chain doesn't shift.
Sometime the chain will decide to shift a couple of secs later.
Other times, I have to shift down another gear and the chain immediately shifts 2 gears down.

Not sure if you know what I mean..
If it helps, it's a 2010 Cannondale slice w/ SRAM red and SRAM TT shifters

[Mulger bill]

That sounds a bit like a gunged cable to me.

[lasertip]

I think the cables are pretty old. Ordered a jagwire racer kit to play with after uni exams

So do you think that it's just cabling, not chain length? Since shifting is only sluggish on the small chainring?

[greyhoundtom]

If this problem has been there for a long time it could certainly be caused by a chain a fraction long. However if it is of recent origin it could be the derailleur spring losing tension or that area of the derailleur needing a good clean and lube.

Before getting involved in changing cables or shortening the chain give the whole derailleur a good blast with some WD 40.

[colaiacw]

It may also pay to check the length of the rear cable outer that runs from the frame to the derailleur stop. If it is too short, the cable can jam or catch slightly giving the impression of slow shifting.

Check the park tools website for detailed info http://www.parktool.com/blog/repair-help. Cheers.

[lasertip]

Cheers guys, will try and let you know how it goes