【microSHIFT】What’s Your microSHIFT

Have you seen the blog post Dora-chan uploaded a while ago??

It breaks down compatibility in an easy-to-understand way, so if you haven't read it yet, please check it out!

What is microSHIFT?

microSHIFT is a brand that helps you expand your options themselves, rather than just looking for the best choice from a pre-determined list.
If you have specific things you want to do with your bike, you definitely need to check them out!

So, this time, I’d like to introduce how our staff actually uses microSHIFT!

Yanack’s microSHIFT

Why I chose this model (combination)

When building the WILDE Rambler, I envisioned bike packing and gravel/trail riding. Because of that, I went with a 2x front setup to get the wide gear range I needed for different situations.
Also, I needed something highly durable for the derailleur since there’s a chance of hitting obstacles during falls or rides, and I’d already decided on drop bars, so I chose Sword.

How it performs in actual use

The shifter structure is different from Shimano or SRAM, so I was a bit confused at first, but I’m using it comfortably now.
The shifting performance is, of course, inferior to the top-tier models from Shimano or SRAM, but it’s more than enough. I also like the look of the levers.

Who do I recommend it for?

It's for people who don't prioritize "speed" or "lightness" for their bike. It’s recommended for those who want tools they can rely on and use to their full potential. Of course, it’s also recommended for anyone looking for the same wide range of uses I am, from bike packing to gravel riding.

Daisaku’s microSHIFT

Why I chose this model (combination)

The only shifters for internal gear hubs are the genuine Shimano Rapidfire ones.
However, when you want to use a shifter that matches your style—like on the down tube or bar ends—this shifter is a lifesaver. I used it this time because I wanted to keep the area around the handlebars clean, but it also leaves room for me to switch to drop bars later on. It’s a classic microSHIFT product that addresses those little needs!

How it performs in actual use
and when it shines

I wanted to clean up the look around the handlebars, and I achieved exactly that. Unlike the genuine shifter, it allows for multiple shifts at once, so I could react quickly even on sudden climbs. Internal gear hubs allow you to shift even while the pedals are stopped, so it turns out this shifter is actually a really great match for that kind of quick shifting!

Who do I recommend it for?

For people who want to try various customizations, those who own highly expandable frames like SURLY, or those using internal gear hubs.
You can mount microSHIFT shifters in many different styles by changing the base, making them a reliable item whenever you want to create your own unique setup! Definitely keep them in mind when planning your next build.

Kamo-chan’s microSHIFT🦆

Why I chose this model (combination)

Originally, I had this built as a gravel bike with the drop-bar type Sword levers, which was great. But I always longed for a style where I could ride it exactly how I usually do, but just charge into gravel—a style combining "flat bars with a huge front bag."

Right when that desire peaked, the new Sword bar-end shifter was released, and I thought, "This is it!!!" So I went ahead and did a thumb shifter modification by combining it with some small parts I’d been wanting to try out.

How it performs in actual use
and when it shines

Since Sword is compatible with Advent X, it can work with standard flat-bar trigger shifters, but thumb shifters—which are simple in both structure and appearance, and allow you to judge your shifting position by the lever—give you a sense of ease. Compared to trigger shifters, shifting requires a bit more force and you have to stretch your fingers, but I love the "click-click" tactile feel of the analog mechanism and the ability to shift through the range quickly.

I often take my bike on trains for touring, so there's less risk of damage if it gets hit or dropped, which makes me worry less while on the road. The same applies to down-tube levers and bar-end shifters.

Who do I recommend it for?

microSHIFT’s high compatibility and abundance of small parts expand your creativity, so I recommend it to anyone who wants to try different handlebars and assemblies on a single bike. Even if your bike setup eventually settles down, you won't have any trouble, as the leftover shifters and derailleurs are easy to reuse for your next build.

It's fascinating how even the same manufacturer can be used so differently depending on the person!!
Look forward to seeing what parts we introduce next!