How to Work the Gears on a Trek 6000 Mountain Bike

The Trek 6000 is a hard-tail mountain bike. Designed for off-road use, the Trek 6000 features a 27-speed, SRAM X.5 gear set connected to SRAM X.5 handlebar-mounted trigger shifters. The front derailleur has three chainwheels, with the rear derailleur consisting of nine sprockets. Using your gears correctly will increase the longevity of your Trek 6000. Knowing what gear to select to suit different terrains and weather conditions will improve your cycling efficiency.

Instructions

    • 1

      Learn how to operate the trigger shifters. The left-hand trigger shifter is connected to the front derailleur. Push the trigger shifter to move down the chainwheel, making the pedal stroke faster, and pull it toward you to move up the chainwheel, subsequently making it more difficult to pedal.

      The right-hand trigger works in the same way but it is used to operate the rear derailleur. Push the trigger shifter to move down the nine sprockets; pull toward you to select a harder gear.

      Do not change gears when stationary and continue pedaling as you operate the trigger shifters.

    • 2

      Select a gear to alter your cadence, or pedal rate. Every rider will have a different optimal cadence -- i.e., most efficient pedal rate, and this will vary, depending on terrain, wind conditions and the individual's fitness level. Most riders' optimal cadence is between 80 and 100 revolutions per minute when riding on the flat.

      Experiment with your gears to find the most comfortable riding cadence under different conditions.

    • 3

      Anticipate your environment. When the the left trigger shifter is set to the middle chainwheel, the nine gears accessible with the right trigger shifter will be sufficient for the majority of terrains and riding conditions. However, if you are approaching a particularly steep incline, for example, anticipate your climb by pushing down your left-hand trigger shifter, moving down the front derailleur and, thus, providing easier gears for a more economical climb.

    • 4

      Maintain your gears to a good condition. Oil your derailleurs and chain regularly to prevent rusting. Replace your gear cables in the event of fraying.