"jj3pa" wrote

Even if its easier to shift from one gear to another, it is still
daunting to some to know when to shift or what to shift to .. How do you
explain to a new person what is first, second .. etc on a bike with 6 on
the back and 3 on the front (18) ? That part still isnt simple.

I've instructed a couple of newbies (kids, first time adults) thusly:

1. Normal riding, leave it in the middle up front.
2. Make gross changes with the front rings (Uphill = smaller, downhills =
larger)
3. Adjust up and down with the back. If it's getting too hard to pedal, go
to the next bigger one in the back. Too easy to pedal? Go to the next
smaller.
- Due to the instant feedback through the feet and legs (pedalling way too
hard or easy), they know instantly if they've shifted to the wrong gear.
("Brain - Don't do that next time!")

They figure it out soon enough.

Pete