Description
Shimano Sora ST-3500R ST-3503L Road Bike 2×3 9Speed STI Shifter Brake Lever
Has been inspected, ultrasonic cleaned, and lubed. Ready to be used.
Inventory number: 08603
Industry Information:
The Shimano Sora ST-3500 (2×9 speed) and ST-3503 (3×9 speed) are STI (Shimano Total Integration) Dual Control shift/brake levers for drop-bar road bikes. As part of the Sora 3500 series, they were a popular and reliable choice for entry-level and recreational road bikes.
Key Features and Compatibility:
- Drivetrain Speeds: The ST-3500 is designed for a 2×9 speed (double) drivetrain, while the ST-3503 is for a 3×9 speed (triple) setup. Both shifters are compatible with a 9-speed cassette and 9-speed chain.
- Front Derailleur: The ST-3500 is specifically for a double front derailleur, and the ST-3503 is for a triple front derailleur. Using the wrong shifter with the wrong front derailleur will result in incorrect shifting.
- Rear Derailleur: These shifters use Shimano’s standard road cable pull ratio for the rear derailleur. For optimal performance, they should be paired with a 9-speed Shimano road rear derailleur, such as the RD-3500. They are not compatible with newer 10-speed or 11-speed Shimano road derailleurs (e.g., Tiagra 4700 or newer), which have a different cable pull ratio.
- Brake Compatibility: The levers are designed for use with Shimano’s “Super SLR” road caliper brakes. They are not compatible with V-brakes or other linear-pull brakes, which require a different cable pull.
- Cable Routing: Unlike some of the higher-end Shimano shifters of the time, the shift cable on the ST-3500/3503 exits from the side of the shifter body rather than being routed under the bar tape. This is a key visual identifier and can affect handlebar bag clearance and a bike’s overall aesthetic.
- Ergonomics: The levers feature an ergonomic design with adjustable reach, making them comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes. They also include an integrated optical gear display for quick and easy gear recognition.
These shifters are a solid choice for maintaining or upgrading an older 9-speed road bike. While they lack the internal cable routing and lighter weight of more modern groupsets, their durability and functionality make them a great value for the price.
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A little about the seller:
I’ve been in the cycling industry for more than 30 years (I know, that makes me old!). I’ve been a professional bicycle mechanic for most of those years, including working locally at Lee’s Cyclery before they became Trek Stores. Now I work from home as a Customer Success Manager for a software team. But I still love fixing up and working on bikes and riding them too!
Purchase from me with peace of mind. Not only can you trust my years of experience, but I will also fit you for the bike and provide any mechanical insight at the time of purchase.
Shipping information:
I ship USPS Ground. I do have a video to help in putting back together. I try to keep it simple. It will be packed very well, but if you see any damage to the box or Part, keep the box and packing material plus, take pictures. I do insure all parts that are shipped. In addition, if shipped out of Colorado, there is no Sales Tax. You can also combine shipping with multiple items.
