Instructions for the Shimano Deore XT

The Shimano Deore XT mountain bike components consist of shifters, brakes and derailleurs. The Deore XT system relies entirely on cable tensioning. Brake and cable tensioning is done through cable barrel adjusters. Cables operate all the functions including braking and shifting. When cables get loose, the bike fails to shift or brake correctly. Cables need to be tightened by using barrel adjusters. For XT-equipped bike tune-ups, all it takes is a few turns.

Things You'll Need

  • Bike stand
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place your mountain bike on a bike stand.

    • 2

      Shift the bike through all the gears on the front and back. If the chain hesitates or makes any chattering when it shifts to bigger gears, twist the barrel adjusters counterclockwise two or three clicks. The barrel adjusters are black serrated knobs located on the end of the shifter handles. The shifter cable runs directly through the center of the knob.

    • 3

      Shift the bike through the gears. If the chain hesitates to move to smaller gears, turn the barrel adjusters one or two clicks clockwise until the bike shifts cleanly to the smaller gears.

    • 4

      Twist the brake barrel adjusters to add tension to the brake cable. The barrel adjusters are located on the end of the brake handle, the brake cable runs through the center. Apply pressure to the brake handles. If the brake handle moves more than about 3/4 inch before the brake pads touch the rim, turn the barrel adjusters two or three clicks counterclockwise.

    • 5

      Spin both wheels one at a time with your hand. Immediately press the brake lever. If the wheel does not stop instantly, turn the barrel adjusters two clicks counterclockwise until the wheel stops instantly when you apply the brakes.