Long story:
I once built a road bike for my wife over 30 years ago. It has Reynolds 531 tubing / 501 forks and alloy parts, so it is quite a decent build. However, my wife has been put off riding it again (after many years absence) as it has shift leavers on the down tube.
As a solution I've managed to get a pair of Shimano Tiegra levers. I've now installed these (after some cabling gynecology). The gears do work as, fortunately, do the brakes, but they are very clunky/jumpy. I suspecting a number of things are the issue!
- A worn chain
- Non indexed rear block (is there such a thing?)
The front chainset is an alloy TA double with plenty of miles left in the teeth.
The rear changer is a shimano DuraAce. There are 5 cogs on the back and the matching the Tiagra dual control
So ... recommendations/answers please!
Is there a means to tell if the rear block is/is not indexed.
I vaguely recall the recommendation that you always change to block/chain and front rings at the same time. Is this still true?
If I need to update the front cogs how do I find the correct fit the bottom bracket axle (if i need to buy online)?
I'm suspecting this may be a pre metric bike as the wheels are 27" x 1.25"
Also, what is the best method for checking a worn chain!
I do have quite a lot of experience with bike maintenance, but I'm a little rusty.!