Neat finish

Note sleeve

Alfine hub has many admirers

Jtek Bar-end Shifter for Shimano Eight-speed Hub $80.00

Hub gears and drop handlebars make uncomfortable bedfellows. Not because the performance promised by the latter is somehow compromised by the weight and reputation of the former, but because most hub gears today are supplied with shift operation designed for flat handlebars.

Attaching a twist or trigger shifter to drop bars is possible, but the result is invariably ungainly and less than satisfactory. This, presumably, is what prompted Jtek Engineering founder Jay Guthrie to come up with a bar-end shifter that operates Shimano’s Alfine and Nexus eight-speed hub gears.

The Alfine hub in particular has received rave reviews from all who have tried it, offering as it does exceptionally sweet shifting and a smooth, highly efficient drive whatever the chosen ratio as well as the option of disc brake fitment.

The Jtek bar-end shifter is designed to fit the right-hand bar end, although it will fit the left side if required. It clamps over the outside of the bar, obviating the need to disassemble the shifter for installation. An included sleeve allows fitment to either 24mm or 22.2mm diameter bars.

CNC-machined throughout, the Jtek shifter is a beautifully-made component that, at 64g, is claimed to be the lightest bar-end shifter on the market. This will, of course, go some way to offsetting the weight of the hub. The shifter is indexed (of course) and will only work with the designated hubs. Jtek is also considering a fitment for the older seven-speed Nexus hub and the possibility of making a down tube shift lever…

Jtek components are available in the UK through SJS Cycles. Ride report coming soon.