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Zimbabwe, Harare
1 Level
677 Review
47 Karma

Review on πŸ”’ 10-Pack SHIMANO Zinc Shift Cable (1.2x2100mm) - Durable and Reliable Shifter Cables by Cody Johnson

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Great value for money front derailleurs and parts

These are simple economy shifter cables from Shimano. They are made in China but are still a great product. especially at their much lower retail price. The only significant difference between these cables and Shimano's mid-range stainless steel version is their rust resistance. In a pack of ten, however, they cost about a quarter of the price of individual stainless steel shift cables from the same manufacturer. and quite adequate if not ideal for many bikes. Stocking spare parts is also easy. The cables themselves are no less sleek and smooth than traditional stainless steel cables, and their dimensions are identical (1.2 x 2100mm). They don't stretch any more than the more expensive ones (when used) and their ends are similarly sealed for ease of threading. The appearance of these cables can actually be a bit deceiving, as the zinc coating bears no resemblance to the lighter color of typical galvanized cables (and Shimano omits the word "zinc" on packaging). If you mix them up, the magnet will stick to these cables more than stainless ones (from Shimano). In any case, each cable is individually bagged so you can easily open it up if needed and make sure you have the item you need (remember the SUS on the bags says 304 stainless steel, otherwise it's galvanized sheet metal) . These special (zinc) cables are also sealed in plastic bags with cardboard lids to keep them looking fresh before installation. A (cheap) cable end clamp is also in each bag. Ten bags of cables come in a box, which is nice too and ensures the cables don't get damaged in transit no matter what. Silicone sleeves ;-). Any number of products can be used, in my opinion a small amount of Rock n Roll 'Cable Magic' dripping into the old cable housing usually creates space, or just a good dab of a regular clear lube like Pedros' Bio-Grease ' along the new cable. often all that is needed (new derailleur cable bodies are all different, some are dry, some are internally lubricated on one end, some are fully silicone filled, some come with internal cables and others are cut from the mass, blah blah. ) . I've misplaced a lot of bike cables, and on expensive bikes, cables can vary wildly in performance and price. But it's also not worth spending $50 on cables on a $100 bike, especially if the rider won't tell the difference! These shifter cables are great for repairing cheaper bikes, kids bikes, neighbor bikes, utility bikes, etc.; and is actually just as good as the regular zinc wires on new $400 bikes. Shimano cables, even the cheapest, are dependable and dependable. Stay away from branded stuff, it's not worth it. Highly recommended.

Pros
  • The best in the niche
Cons
  • I'll add later