Can a Brake Cable Be Used as a Gear Cable?

I work primarily with older and low-cost bicycles, but recently I found myself needing to refine the anchor end of a brake cable to make it much smaller. Additionally, the cable housing was of an older, brake cable style. However, as fate would have it, brake and gear cables can often be a cost-effective solution when on a tight budget.

Can Brake Cables Substitute for Gear Cables?

If you're a budget-conscious cyclist, you might wonder whether a brake cable can be used as a gear cable. While it's not an ideal solution, in some instances, you can make it work. You can find 20 pieces of 2M gear or 1.7M brake cable for as low as under $20, a price point that makes it a practical option for those with limited finances.

Historical Context of Shifting Cables and Housing

Shift cables used in traditional friction shifters are different from those in modern indexed systems. The historical evolution of shifting cables marks a significant change in how bicycles are ridden. In the past, Campagnolo mastered the art of creating heavier gauge shift cables, which provided a more robust performance. However, with the advent of indexing technology, Campagnolo shifted to thinner cables similar to Shimano's offerings, which enhanced the precision and reliability of gear shifting.

Comparing Brake and Gear Cable Characteristics

Brake cables and gear cables differ in several crucial aspects. Brake cables, typically found in road bikes, have a PFTE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) lined housing with longitudinal outer wires. In contrast, gear cables are helically wound, giving them a different construction and flexibility.

Using a Brake Cable as a Gear Cable

The primary challenge when using a brake cable as a gear cable is the inherent differences in their design and functionality. Brake cables are optimized to withstand the high tension and rigors of braking, whereas gear cables need to be more flexible to facilitate smooth shifting.

Conditions for Successful Conversion

While a complete conversion isn't straightforward, there are some cases where you can make it work. The key is to use a road brake cable instead of a general brake cable, as road brake cables are often designed for more precise shifting needs. Additionally, if you manage to reduce the anchor end of the brake cable to a size compatible with your gear shifter, you might achieve a functional solution.

Limitations and Risks

It's important to note that using a brake cable as a gear cable comes with its own set of limitations and risks. The PFTE lining and longitudinal wires in brake cables are not well-suited for the high-frequency, rapid shifts that gear cables need to handle. This can lead to performance issues, such as inaccurate shifting and potential premature wear on your shifter.

Conclusion

While it's possible to use a brake cable as a gear cable in certain situations, especially when cost is a significant factor, it's crucial to understand the limitations and potential risks. Always consider your specific needs and the quality of your components before making such a substitution. For the best performance and longevity, investing in appropriate gear cables and shifters is recommended.