How to Adjust Your Rear Derailleur

Step-by-Step Summary

1. Shift to smallest cog: Shift your chain to the smallest cog (hardest gear) and ensure the cable tension is slack.
2. Set High (H) Limit: Adjust the 'H' screw so the derailleur pulley lines up directly under the smallest cog.
3. Anchor the cable: Pull the cable tight (but not forcefully) and tighten the anchor bolt.
4. Shift to largest cog: Carefully shift to the largest cog. If you can't get there, add tension using the barrel adjuster.
5. Set Low (L) Limit: Adjust the 'L' screw so the pulley lines up with the largest cog. This prevents the chain from falling into the spokes.
6. Index the gears: Shift through the middle gears. If it hesitates going up (to larger cogs), turn the barrel adjuster counter-clockwise. If it hesitates going down, turn it clockwise.
7. Set B-Tension: Shift to the largest cog and adjust the B-screw until there is about 5-6mm gap between the pulley and the cog teeth.

[!TIP] If shifting is inconsistent after adjustment, check your derailleur hanger alignment. A bent hanger makes perfect indexing impossible.