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Shifter/Brake Combo - How can you fix a broken handlebar clamp?

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Shifter/Brake Combo - How can you fix a broken handlebar clamp?

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Old 09-18-18, 10:27 PM
  #1  
raria
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Shifter/Brake Combo - How can you fix a broken handlebar clamp?

Hi,

I have a hybrid bike with shifter/brake combos like those here (but not exactly): https://www.amazon.com/Shimano-ST-EF...+3+speed&psc=1

These shifter/brake combos work really well together but the left hand side (3 shifter) has a broken handlebar clamp (right down the middle) so the thing is attached to the bars with duct tape!

I would buy a replacement but they no longer made this exact style so there will be a mis-match. I could buy a complete replacement for both sides but I like the way these shift.

Any creative suggestions to fix this beyond using duct tape

Thanks!
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Old 09-19-18, 01:14 AM
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cpach
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I wouldn't mess around with the quality of the attachment point of my primary brake. I'd recommend replacing the lever/shifter. You could try ebay if you want to try and find an exacting match, but really how big of a deal if they slightly mismatch in practice?

I really doubt there's anything unique about the shift performance of your current shifters.
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Old 09-19-18, 05:49 AM
  #3  
andrewclaus
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I agree with the above. This is life safety equipment, most especially the front brake. I'm normally all for creativity, but don't mess around with home repair on this one.

My local co-op has a bin full of salvaged, decent brifters, some matched pairs, especially 3x7s.
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Old 09-19-18, 07:26 AM
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HillRider
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Could you use an adjustable "radiator clamp" riveted to the remains of the OEM clamp?
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Old 09-19-18, 09:34 AM
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hermanchauw
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Ef51 is still easily available in taobao. Also newer Ef65 and older Ef29.
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Old 09-19-18, 01:45 PM
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Why don't you find the model number of your shift/brake and search for its match? It is usually on the underside of the brake lever.

I agree 120% with the comments regarding homebrew fixes for safety-of-life equipment, particularly your primary brake. Fix it right.
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Old 09-19-18, 03:31 PM
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Bigbus
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Duct tape? Seriously? Got a side of bailing wire to go with that? Check with a local BS first and/or ebay. They're everywhere.
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