SHĪF-Tər
Noun, Verb
A shifter is a device used to change gears on a bicycle.
Example usage: I shifted up a few gears so I could pedal faster.
Most used in: Mountain biking and road cycling.
Most used by: Cyclists who prefer to use multiple gears on their bikes.
Popularity: 8
Comedy Value: 3
Also see: Derailleur, Gear Lever, Gear Shifter, Gear Control, Gear Selector,
What is a Shifter?
A shifter is a device on a bicycle that allows the rider to change gears. It is typically located on the handlebars, and is used to move the chain between different sprockets on the rear wheel, allowing for a wider range of gearing options. Shifters can be either mechanical or electronic, with the latter becoming increasingly popular.
Mechanical shifters use cables to move the derailleur, which is the system that moves the chain between sprockets. Electronic shifters use motors to move the derailleur, and can be operated with the push of a button. Electronic shifters are becoming increasingly popular due to their ease of use and reliability.
Bicycles with multiple gears are becoming increasingly popular, with over 70% of adult bicycles now being equipped with multiple gears. Many cyclists prefer multiple gears as it allows them to adjust their speed and effort level to suit the terrain they are riding on.
Shifters are an essential part of any bicycle with multiple gears, and are key to getting the most out of your ride. Whether you choose a mechanical or electronic shifter, they are sure to make your ride more enjoyable.
.A Brief History of the Cycling Term 'Shifter'
The term 'shifter' first appeared in the cycling world in the late 1970s. It was used to refer to the mechanism that cyclists used to change gears on their bikes.
The term originated in the United States, where the invention of the gear shifter was credited to the American bike manufacturer, Shimano. It was initially used to refer to the shifter levers on the handlebars, but eventually came to refer to the entire gear-shifting mechanism.
Since its first use, the term 'shifter' has become widely used amongst cyclists, both professional and recreational. Today, it is often used interchangeably with other terms such as 'derailleur' and 'gear shifter'.
