Slim shims

Mayo self-build

Looking for some advice...

I'm wondering whether it is possible to buy 'slim shim' spacers for Shimano Tiagra 9 speed shifters. I've read various conflicting accounts and have seen some mention that these spacers are only available for 105 and Ultegra shifters.

I've small hands, and when in the drops I have to adjust position to get a proper grip on the brakes. I've had a few incidents which have made me realise that I really need to sort this issue.

Has anyone managed to solve this problem satisfactorily in another way? Is there any sort of alternative solution? Who are the 'go-to' Boardsies or bike shops for this kind of thing?

Any advice greatly appreciated!

doozerie

By the looks of things the spacers are not available from Shimano for Tiagra ST-4400, but are available (and should have come with the levers) for Tiagrs ST-4500 (part no. 10), Tiagra ST-4501 (part no. 10), Tiagra ST-4503 (part no. 10), and Tiagra ST-4600 (part no. 13).

It’s a possibility that some other manufacturer makes ones for ST-4400 though, perhaps, if that is the model of Tiagra that you have. Specialised makes/made "slim shims" apparently but a cursory search on their website didn't throw back anything promising (though I really didn't spend more than a few seconds checking).

Mayo self-build

Hi Doozerie, really appreciate the response. Please forgive the noobie question, but how do I know which model I have?

doozerie

I don't know for sure, I've never dealt with Tiagra personally so I'm not sure whether Shimano typically write/stamp the model number somewhere on the lever (I'd assume they do so on the back of the lever but that's just a guess). Looking at the exploded diagrams in the technical docs that I link to above though it looks like the ST-4400 is the only model that has a visible screw going through the "cap" at the top of the lever. All of the other models appear to have a (plastic) faceplate on the front which covers up the screw(s) underneath. There are likely photographs of the real levers on the Shimano website though that could prove/disprove that.

Mayo self-build

Ok, thanks, will see if I can determine the model.

mirv

Evans have some specialized branded shims for Shimano shifters. Have a browse that direction.

kuro_man

I made my own, by cutting the shape out of self-adhesive puncture patches.. The more you stack, the more reach is reduced.