While riding on Cape Cod this weekend, my co-star came up with an interesting (to me) question: Why do the front and rear shifters work opposite to each other? Further explanation. We both have Ultegra integrated shifters. On the right (REAR), clicking the larger shifter moves the chain to a larger ring closer to the frame. On the left (FRONT), clicking the larger lever moves the chain to a larger ring that is further from the frame.
Why don't both larger levers move the chain the same direction?
Thanks,
Tom Weaver
Long day and got the front and rear reversed. No wonder it was confusing. Apologies
Why don't both larger levers move the chain the same direction?
To amplify Leo's response a little (and with exceptions noted), the difference is fundamentally based on the fact that higher, harder gears are larger drive sprockets and smaller driven sprockets.
