cuddy8

I have a 2013-2014 Trek Madone 4.7 with an Ultegra drivetrain. I along with multiple reputable mechanics have worked on trying to get the shifting as smooth as it can be, however, we just can't get there. By smooth, I mean one click on the shift lever should move to the next gear appropriately. I am wondering if the drivetrain is just worn out from years of use and an upgrade is warranted? I don't expect shifting on a road bike to be totally quiet or unnoticeable, but multiple clicks to move gears shouldn't happen. All of the parts seem to be in working condition with no defects, bends, etc.

I'm curious about your thoughts on the smoothest groupsets out there for long endurance cycling?

Thanks

Steve B.

Replace chain and cassette. Start there. Maybe cables at same time. I'm surprised multiple mechanics haven't suggested this already.

Moving to a new Ultegra or 105 level group cheaply is dependent on whether the rear hub can handle an 11 spd. cassette. If so, you can upgrade cassette, both derailers, chain and shifters (plus cables and bar tape). Couple of hundred bucks.

cuddy8

Thanks, I appreciate the recommendations. The chain was the first thing I swapped out when I bought the bike. I honestly haven't given a though to the cassette, so I may give that a try. Any recommendations on a 10 speed groupset upgrade?

Phil_gretz

Cables and housings must be replaced regularly. This is not an afterthought. They will become a primary cause of sluggish shifting and when the rear shift cable fails at the ratcheting head within the shifter, heaven help you. Don't hesitate to replace these.

alcjphil

A 2013-2014 Trek would have an Ultegra 6700 drivetrain. Cable and housing replacement on a regular basis is very important to prevent shifting problems with this setup. This was Shimano's first attempt at routing shift cables under the bar tape and they didn't get it quite right until 11 speed came out.

50PlusCycling

As previously mentioned, the cables must be in good order, and it helps if the shifters are clean and properly lubricated. As for shifting, the chain rings on the freewheel and crank set have ramps or lands to improve shifting speed. However, these ramps and lands are not the same on every tooth. Sometimes, if you shift when the chain is in the proper position, a shift will be instantaneous, other times it will not be, this is normal. A properly lubricated driveline will make little or no noise. If there are louder sounds, like a loud whirring sound, or a long whir and occasional click, then the derailleur may not be centered, the can be fixed with the barrel adjusters. So long as the derailleur is centered, and the stops are adjusted, it should shift properly.

mstateglfr 

Multiple reputable mechanics have looked at the bike? Then surely the cassette, chainrings, and cables have all been inspected and replaced if needed.

Melvang

Shifters alone are going to cost more than that unless buying used or gray market. I just put 105 11 speed on my bike and shifters were $235.