Shimano Shift Cable

Measuring 1.1-1.2mm in diameter, these cables are used with most Shimano and SRAM branded shifters; both drop bar and flat bar type. They have a small cylindrical cable end/head which slots into the shifter cable end carrier.

These cables can be coated in a number of different compounds such as Teflon, PTFE and grease. These compounds act to protect the steel cable from the elements as well as reduce friction in the housing to improve shifting performance. Good shift cables are made of stainless steel to prevent rust from forming and negatively affecting shifting performance. Inexpensive cables are typically made of steel which results in rust forming easily and the cables needing to be replaced more regularly.