There are a lot of things to consider when you are looking for the best bike shift levers. You want to make sure that you get something that is durable and will last a long time. You also want to make sure that it is comfortable to use and easy to install.
We have put together a list of the best bike shift levers on the market, so you can easily find the perfect one for your needs. We have also included ratings and reviews, so you can see what others think about each product. With this information, you can make an informed decision and choose the best bike shift levers for your needs.
10 Best Bike Shift Levers | June 2023 (Reviewed & Ranked)
Last updated on June 12, 2023
10 minutes
OUR TOP PICKS
Top #1
MEGHNA Bicycle Twist Shifter 7-Speed Grip Shift Mountain Bike 3x7 Shifters Gear Grip Shift(Pair)
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Top #2
Bike Shifter SL-TX30-6R/7R,6/7 Speed Mountain Bicycle Right Thumb Gear Shift Lever
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Top #3
DMAIP 2Pcs Professional EF51-7 3x7/8 21/24Speed MTB Bicycle Bike Left Right Brake Lever Shifter Set
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A Few Of Our Ranking Metrics:
Check below for our tips on purchasing the best Bike Shift Levers:
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The 10 best Bike Shift Levers
Top #1
MEGHNA Bicycle Twist Shifter 7-Speed Grip Shift Mountain Bike 3x7 Shifters Gear Grip Shift(Pair)
85%
Customer
Satisfaction
100%
Overall
Score
92%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it is a 3x7 speed twist shifter with handlebar grips, and it is suitable for 21 speed mountain bike, commuter bikes, folding bicycles, kids or youth bike.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is good quality.
It is better quality than the OEM.
The shifters are good because they're comfortable and easy to use.
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Top #2
Bike Shifter SL-TX30-6R/7R,6/7 Speed Mountain Bicycle Right Thumb Gear Shift Lever
90%
Customer
Satisfaction
96%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are that it can tell the rider which gear has been selected during riding, and that it is a trigger-type 7 speed right shifter with one lever for down-shift and a thumb button for up-shifts.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The shifter is easy to install.
It is easy to break.
It is compatible with an older derailleur.
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Top #3
DMAIP 2Pcs Professional EF51-7 3x7/8 21/24Speed MTB Bicycle Bike Left Right Brake Lever Shifter Set
80%
Customer
Satisfaction
96%
Overall
Score
89%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
This product has a gear position display that makes it easy to change gears, and the 7-speed EZ FIRE PLUS shift/brake handle provides an ergonomically designed finger position and trigger-style handle.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The shifters are perfect and durable.
It is well constructed.
It seems to work well for the price.
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Top #4
Shimano Bike Shifter SL-TX30-7R,7 Speed Mountain Bicycle Right Thumb Gear Shift Lever
87%
Customer
Satisfaction
93%
Overall
Score
88%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The shifter has a smooth operation feel. The shifter is easy to determine gears with the digital display. The shifter is made of high quality plastic and metal materials, light and strong.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to install.
It works better than the original.
The twist type gear changer is better because it has a more natural feel.
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Top #5
Shimano Revoshift SL-RS35,7 Speed Bike Right Shift Lever for Mountain Bicycle
88%
Customer
Satisfaction
90%
Overall
Score
84%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
This product is made of high-quality plastic and durable metal materials, it has the greatest safety and stable quality, and it can be used for mountain bikes, commuter bikes, folding bikes, etc.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to install.
The shifter is great for mountain biking and selling on MTB's in the past.
The shifter went on quickly.
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Top #6
Tourney Shimano Shift Lever SL-TX30
91%
Customer
Satisfaction
90%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
Optical gear display. Easy to understand operation. Thumb shifter.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to install.
The fit is great.
The shift lever is easy to install.
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Top #7
ZUKKA Right Thumb Gear Shifter SL-TX30-6R,6 Speed Bike Shift Lever for Mountain City Road Folding Bicycle
90%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
84%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are the optical gear display and the trigger-type 6 speed shifter.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is easy to install and works like a charm.
The derailer works well.
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Top #8
SRAM Force Brake/Shift Lever
84%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
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WHAT WE LIKE:
Textured body for improved grip. Reach Adjust allows you to perfectly set lever reach to your personal specifications. Left shifter only.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The yaw in the front derailleur works great and I get no chain rub even when completely cross-chained.
The hoods are very comfortable and roll back easily and completely when taping the bars.
Adjusting the reach is no longer relegated to rotating a teeny hidden knob. With the Force 22, reach is adjusted with an Allen key. The range of reach adjustment is large.
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Top #9
SHIMANO ST-EF500-4 Bicycle Shift/Brake Lever Set - 3 x 7 Speed, EZ-Fire Plus, 4F-Alloy, for V-Brake - Black - ESTEF5004PV7A3
88%
Customer
Satisfaction
89%
Overall
Score
86%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The best features of this product are the 3 x 7-speed shifting, 4-Finger lever, compatible with cantilever, roller, linear-pull, and mechanical disc brakes. The clean cable routing is also a great feature.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
The derailleurs are easy to install.
The cable tensioning pliers were helpful.
It is easy to install.
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Top #10
SHIMANO ST-EF500-L4A Mountain Bicycle Shift/Brake Lever (Left 3-Speed)
86%
Customer
Satisfaction
87%
Overall
Score
85%
Product
Quality
View on Amazon
WHAT WE LIKE:
The ST-EF500 is a high quality brake/shift lever that is made from durable materials. This brake/shift lever has a comfortable design that makes it easy to use. The ST-EF500 is perfect for riders who want the best possible experience when riding their bikes.
Pros & Cons From Reviewers:
It is good because it held up well, but the new set sems more durable.
It is good for people who have older bikes that have cantilever brakes and Shimano Alivio groupset.
It is easy to get adjusted to, even with a second bike.
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Bike Shift Levers Buying Guide : What You Need To Know
*Our top pick for the best Bike Shift Levers
Attributes Of High Quality Bike Shift Levers
- Bike shift levers should be made of high quality materials that are durable and long lasting.
- They should be easy to install and use, with clear instructions included.
- The bike shift levers should provide a smooth, precise shifting experience.
How To Choose The Best Bike Shift Levers
When it comes to choosing the best bike shift levers for your ride, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind. First, you'll need to decide on the style of lever you prefer. There are three main styles to choose from - classic, mission, and simple. Each has its own unique look and feel, so it's really a matter of personal preference.
Once you've decided on the style of lever you want, you'll need to choose a finish. There are four main finishes to choose from - oil rubbed, painted, polished, and powder coated. Again, it's really a matter of personal preference as to which one you choose.
Finally, you'll need to decide on the size of lever you need. Lever sizes are typically measured in millimeters (mm), and the most common sizes are 38mm, 42mm, and 46mm. If you're not sure which size is right for you, it's always best to err on the side of caution and go with the larger size.
With all that said, let's take a closer look at each of these factors so you can make an informed decision when it comes time to purchase your new bike shift levers...
Style: Classic vs Mission vs Simple
The first thing you'll need to decide is what style of lever you prefer. There are three main styles to choose from - classic, mission, and simple. Each has its own unique look and feel, so it's really a matter of personal preference as to which one you choose.
Classic levers have a more traditional look and feel to them. They're often made from metal or plastic, and they usually have a round or oval shape. Mission levers also have a traditional look, but they're typically made from aluminum or carbon fiber for a lighter weight. Simple levers are just that - simple. They don't have any frills or extras; they're just basic levers that get the job done without any fuss.
Finish Type: Oil Rubbed vs Painted vs Polished vs Powder Coated
Once you've decided on the style of lever you want, you'll need to choose a finish. There are four main finishes to choose from - oil rubbed, painted, polished, and powder coated. Again, it's really a matter of personal preference as to which one you choose.
Oil rubbed finishes have a rich color that looks great on any bike. They're also very durable and easy to maintain. Painted finishes also look great on any bike, but they're not as durable as oil rubbed finishes and they may require more maintenance over time. Polished finishes give your bike a high-end look that is sure to turn heads when out on the road or trail. However, they do require more maintenance than other finishes and may show scratches more easily. Powder coated finishes are very durable and easy to maintain while still looking great on your bike. They're available in a wide variety of colors so you can find the perfect match for your ride.
Size: 38mm vs 42mm vs 46mm
Finally, you'll need to decide on the size of lever you need. Lever sizes are typically measured in millimeters (mm), and the most common sizes are 38mm, 42mm
What To Avoid When Looking For The Best Bike Shift Levers
When choosing the best bike shift levers, there are a few things to avoid. First, avoid levers that are made of plastic. Plastic is not as durable as metal and is more likely to break. Second, avoid levers that are not adjustable. Adjustable levers allow you to customize the position of the lever, which can make shifting easier and more comfortable. Finally, avoid levers that do not have a good grip. A good grip will help you keep your hands on the levers while shifting, making it less likely that you'll accidentally drop them.