Introduction
The Shimano ST-3400 Sora 9-Speed Double STI Lever Set integrates both braking and gear shifting functions into a single unit, designed for road bicycles. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your STI lever set to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Safety Information
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, during installation and maintenance.
- Ensure all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque settings. Overtightening or undertightening can lead to component failure.
- If you are unsure about any installation or adjustment procedure, consult a professional bicycle mechanic.
- Regularly inspect brake and shift cables for wear or damage. Replace them immediately if any issues are found.
- Keep hands and clothing clear of moving parts during operation.
Package Contents
Verify that all components are present in the package:
- Shimano ST-3400 Sora 9-Speed Double STI Lever Set (Left and Right)
- Installation Hardware (e.g., bolts, screws)
- User Manual (this document)
Image showing the Shimano ST-3400 Sora 9-speed Double STI Lever Set, featuring the integrated brake and shift levers.
Setup and Installation
1. Mounting the Levers
- Position the STI levers on the handlebars. Ensure they are symmetrically placed and at an angle that provides comfortable access to both brake and shift levers.
- Secure the levers to the handlebars using the integrated clamp bolts. Tighten to the recommended torque specification (refer to Shimano's official technical documents for precise values).
2. Cable Routing
- Route the brake cables through the designated channels within the lever body and along the handlebars.
- Route the shift cables similarly, ensuring smooth bends and no kinks. Use appropriate cable housing and ferrules.
3. Connecting Brake and Shift Cables
- Connect the brake cables to your caliper or V-brakes, ensuring proper tension and alignment.
- Connect the shift cables to your front and rear derailleurs. Adjust cable tension to allow for smooth and precise shifting across all gears.
4. Fine-Tuning
- Test both brake levers for firm and responsive braking. Adjust cable tension and caliper position as needed.
- Test shifting through all gears on both the front and rear derailleurs. Make micro-adjustments to cable tension using the barrel adjusters on the levers or derailleurs until shifting is crisp and reliable.
Operating Instructions
Braking
The main lever body functions as the brake lever. Pull the lever towards the handlebar to engage the brakes. Apply even pressure to both front and rear brakes for controlled stopping. Avoid sudden, hard braking, especially with the front brake, to prevent loss of control.
Shifting Gears
The ST-3400 features two shift levers integrated into each STI unit:
- Large Lever (Main Brake Lever): Pushing the entire brake lever inwards (towards the center of the handlebar) shifts the rear derailleur to a larger cog (easier gear) or the front derailleur to a larger chainring (harder gear).
- Small Lever (Behind Brake Lever): Pushing the smaller lever inwards shifts the rear derailleur to a smaller cog (harder gear) or the front derailleur to a smaller chainring (easier gear).
Shift gears smoothly and avoid shifting under heavy load. Anticipate terrain changes and shift proactively.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the STI levers and surrounding areas with a mild detergent and water. Avoid high-pressure washing directly onto the lever mechanisms.
- Lubrication: Apply a small amount of bicycle-specific lubricant to the pivot points of the levers and the exposed sections of the shift and brake cables periodically.
- Cable Inspection: Inspect brake and shift cables and housing for fraying, kinks, or corrosion. Replace worn cables and housing to maintain optimal performance and safety.
- Bolt Check: Periodically check the tightness of all mounting bolts on the levers and associated components.
Troubleshooting
Shifting Problems
- Difficulty Shifting: Check cable tension. Adjust barrel adjusters on the levers or derailleurs. Ensure cables and housing are clean and lubricated. Inspect for bent derailleur hangers.
- Ghost Shifting: Often caused by insufficient cable tension or worn cable housing. Re-tension cables and inspect housing.
Braking Problems
- Spongy Brakes: Indicates too much slack in the cable or air in hydraulic systems (not applicable to this mechanical lever). Adjust cable tension.
- Weak Braking: Check brake pad wear, cable tension, and ensure brake calipers are properly aligned.
Specifications
- Brand:
- SHIMANO
- Model Number:
- ST-3400 (Part Number: IST3400PAC)
- Speed:
- 9-speed (Rear), Double (Front)
- Brake Lever Actuation:
- Short Pull
- Derailleur Housing Included:
- Yes
- Lever Color:
- Black/Silver (Metallic Finish)
- Specific Uses For Product:
- Bicycle (Cycling)
- Included Components:
- Bolt, Installation Hardware, Screw
- UPC:
- 689228131590
- Item Package Dimensions (L x W x H):
- 11.2 x 9.9 x 2.4 inches
- Package Weight:
- 2.2 Pounds
- Date First Available:
- July 21, 2008
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Shimano website or contact your authorized Shimano dealer. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. This manual does not constitute a warranty statement.