There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best bike shift cables for your needs. We created this list of the best bike shift cables with ratings and reviews to help you make an informed decision.
Bike shift cables are an important part of your bike's shifting system. They connect the shifter to the derailleur, and allow you to change gears. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing bike shift cables. First, consider the material. Bike shift cables are typically made from stainless steel, which is durable and resists corrosion. However, some brands offer coated cables, which can provide additional protection against dirt and grime. Second, think about compatibility. Make sure that the bike shift cables you choose are compatible with your shifter and derailleur. Finally, consider ease of installation. Some brands offer pre-lubricated or self-installation kits to make installation easier.
10 Best Bike Shift Cables | June 2023 (Reviewed & Ranked)
Last updated on June 12, 2023
10 minutes
OUR TOP PICKS
Top #1
Hapleby 10PCS Premium Bike Shift Cable, Professional Bicycle Shift Wire Kit for Mountain and Road Bi...
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Top #3
Jagwire - Universal 1x Pro Shift Kit |for Road, MTN, and Gravel Bike | SRAM and Shimano Shifter Comp...
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A Few Of Our Ranking Metrics:
Check below for our tips on purchasing the best Bike Shift Cables:
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The 10 best Bike Shift Cables
Top #1
Hapleby 10PCS Premium Bike Shift Cable, Professional Bicycle Shift Wire Kit for Mountain and Road Bicycle, for Free 5 O-Rings, 10 End Ferrules and 20 ...
100%
Customer
Satisfaction
100%
Overall
Score
91%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product is made of high-quality zinc-coated wires, which makes it resistant to corrosion. It comes with enough O-rings, sheath ferrules, and end caps for free, two different length front and rear cables, and a Dremel tool for cutting the cable if needed. The cable is low-friction and strong, making it suitable for speed control systems.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The quality of the cable is superior.
The quality of the parts is good.
The stretch test showed that they were flexible.
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Top #2
SHIMANO OT-SP41 Optislick Shifting Cable Set
94%
Customer
Satisfaction
94%
Overall
Score
94%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
Cables are made of stainless steel and have an Optislick coating. Compatible with Shimano and SRAM drivetrains. Includes shift cable housings for a road bike.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
N/A.
It is easy to install.
It helps go through the tubing better.
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Top #3
Jagwire - Universal 1x Pro Shift Kit |for Road, MTN, and Gravel Bike | SRAM and Shimano Shifter Compatible, Polished Stainless Cables, 10 Color Option...
95%
Customer
Satisfaction
94%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
Pre-lubricated inner liner (SLICK-LUBE) reduces friction and improves the feel of the lever. Sleeves are made from durable, high quality materials. Includes all necessary hardware.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is good quality.
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Top #4
YAKAMOZ 2-in-1 Universal Bike Bicycle Shift Derailleur Cable & Brake Cable Housing Replacement Kit for Moutain Road Bike Cycling Repairing
90%
Customer
Satisfaction
92%
Overall
Score
89%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
Cables are made of stainless steel and PVC. Cables are heat resistant. Cable ends and ferules are included.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It seems to be well-made and arrived as advertised.
The quality of the product is good.
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Top #5
Universal Bicycle Transmission Line Bicycle Shift Derailleur Cable and Brake Cable Kit for Bicycle Mountain Road Bike Repair
90%
Customer
Satisfaction
92%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product is made of high-quality materials and comes with a variable speed cable set. It is also wear resistant and provides safety to cyclists.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to use and fits a Schwinn collegiate five speed bicycle well.
The cables are good because they bring new life to an old bike.
The brake and shifter cables are corroded, so shifting becomes difficult but these cables have brought new life to the bike.
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Top #6
Jagwire Slick Stainless Steel Shift/Shifter Cables Set
98%
Customer
Satisfaction
92%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
JAGWIRE cables are made of slick stainless steel for a smooth shift experience. Cable tips are made of silver alloy for a durable finish. Bundle includes brake cables.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is not sram but quality is the same.
The cables are good quality.
It is good for replacing cable.
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Top #7
Shimano MTB Optislick Derailleur Cable and Housing Set, Black
97%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it includes a 1.0 x 2100mm shift cable, a 1.0 x 1800mm shift cable, and a 1 x 1700mm housing.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The cable set is easy to install.
The parts are included.
It is easy to install.
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Top #8
corki Universal Bicycle Shifter Cable Housing Set for Shimano Sram Derailleur
93%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
90%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
Every so often during your ride, you might have noticed delayed shifting or even jumping gears. If so, it's time to upgrade and replace your shifter cable and cable housing. Choose between a variety of gear cable housing colors to match your bike. With each set, you receive both shifter cables and gear cable housing for your front and rear gears as well as clips, ferrules, and cable end crimps. . The front inner cable is 2100mm / 82.7 inches long, the rear gear cable is 2100mm .
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The process of setting up the product is easy to follow.
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Top #9
Jagwire - Universal 2X Pro Shift Kit |for Road, MTN, and Gravel Bike | SRAM and Shimano Shifter Compatible, Polished Stainless Cables, 10 Color Option...
99%
Customer
Satisfaction
91%
Overall
Score
92%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The sellers product description mentions that the cables are polished and have a Slick-Lube liner. They also mention that the cable ends are weld-cut for easy installation.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to use and fit.
The kit comes more than enough cable and housing than you'll need to replace any bike cables.
The kit hits every gear flawlessly shifting up and down.
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Top #10
Stainless Steel Bicycle Cable Cutter with 10 Pieces Bike Shift Cable, 5 Pieces O-Rings,10 Pieces End Ferrules and 20 Pieces End Caps, Bicycle Shift Wi...
86%
Customer
Satisfaction
90%
Overall
Score
89%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is a cable cutter and shift cable.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
N/A.
It is working fine.
It is good, but the description says you will get 10 derailer cables.
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Bike Shift Cables Buying Guide : What You Need To Know
*Our top pick for the best Bike Shift Cables
Attributes Of High Quality Bike Shift Cables
- Durable.
- Smooth action.
- Precise shifting.
- Low friction.
How To Choose The Best Bike Shift Cables
When it comes to choosing the best bike shift cables, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The most important thing is the type of bike you have. There are different types of bikes that require different types of cables. For example, a road bike will need a different type of cable than a mountain bike.
The next thing you need to consider is the material the cable is made from. The most common materials are stainless steel and Kevlar. Stainless steel is the more affordable option, but it is not as durable as Kevlar. Kevlar is more expensive, but it is much more durable and will last longer.
The last thing to consider is the length of the cable. You need to make sure you get a cable that is long enough to reach from your shifter to your derailleur. If you have a lot of gears, you may need a longer cable.
Now that you know what to look for when choosing bike shift cables, here are some tips on how to choose the best ones:
1. First, decide what type of bike you have and what type of cable it needs.
2. Next, decide what material you want your cable to be made from. Stainless steel is cheaper but less durable, while Kevlar is more expensive but more durable.
3. Finally, determine how long your cable needs to be. Measure from your shifter to your derailleur and add a few extra inches just in case.
4. Once you've decided on all three factors, compare different brands and prices to find the best deal on bike shift cables that meet your needs.
What To Avoid When Looking For The Best Bike Shift Cables
When it comes to choosing the best bike shift cables, there are a few things you'll want to avoid in order to make sure you're getting the most out of your purchase. Here are four things to keep in mind when selecting bike shift cables:
1. Avoid using generic or aftermarket cables.
Bike-specific shift cables are designed to work with the specific geometry of your bike's frame and components. Generic or aftermarket cables may not fit as well, which can cause shifting problems. In addition, aftermarket cables may not be compatible with all shifters and could damage your equipment.
2. Don't skimp on quality.
Cheap cables are more likely to fray, kink, or break than their higher-quality counterparts. This can leave you stranded on the side of the road or trail, so it's worth it to invest in a good set of bike shift cables.
3. Make sure the cable length is correct.
If the cable is too short, it won't be able to reach all of the gears on your bike. If it's too long, it will be difficult to route through your frame and could get caught on other components while you're riding. It's important to measure the length of your old cable before ordering a new one to ensure a perfect fit.
4. Consider coated cables.
Coated cables are more resistant to dirt and moisture than uncoated ones, which means they'll last longer and require less maintenance over time. If you ride in wet or dirty conditions often, coated cables may be worth the extra investment.