Internal, External cabling

[Jongozi]

You know when you get into an expensive car, those that not every person can afford, there are always some tiny detail that reminds you that you are in a kind of luxury that doesn’t come by every day.

Well when it comes to bikes I have always had the same idea. When you look at your top end bikes there is always something different like the shape of the top tube or how all the mechanics come together that caches your eye and make you think “That must be a top end bike”

One of these fine details for me was internal cabling. Internal cabling always gave me the impression of n bit more planning, a bit more care and a bit more detail, which is what makes the difference between a top end bike and a mid-range bike.

I am now looking to buy a Momsen Vipa XT 2016 and saw that the Momsen has external cabling. Now this has no influence on my choice. I am just curious to know if there is any specific reason for a mountain bike to have the cabling on the outside and what the pros and cons is with regards to internal vs external cabling.

[Dieter ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)]

Mostly cosmetic. Could come into play when the bike is on the car rack but not really an issue per se. 

[PhilipV]

Internal cabling is a las when you have to replace cable outers. And if the brakes run internally as well, you have to remove the cable from the lever if you need to replace something.

[Donovan Le Cok]

As far as I know, the internal cabling is really a big issue for mechanics. A lot of the bikes are coming out with external cabling to make them easier to work on. Especially mountain bikes that have to be serviced between stages on multi day events.

[rouxtjie]

If you value serviceability...go external

 

If you value aesthetics...go internal

 

No right or wrong...just depends what you see as priority 

[dirtypot]

Internal routing can be a bitch on some bikes, but the more often you do it the easier it gets.  It doesn't take too much longer than an external setup once you've figured out the knack. 

It does look a lot neater, but a solid piece of housing from the shifter to the RD is still the best for smooth operation in all conditions.  

[Jongozi]

That is what I thought. I suppose on a multi stage race, especially if you have to look after your own bike.

Thanks for the input guys

 

As far as I know, the internal cabling is really a big issue for mechanics. A lot of the bikes are coming out with external cabling to make them easier to work on. Especially mountain bikes that have to be serviced between stages on multi day events.

[Halfdoesyn]

Internal is bad for me because:

1. It's a nightmare to maintain.
2. It rattles.
3. cable pull is harder.

[DJuice]

Jongozi

 

Look at the Swift Evil Twin, my opinion they had the best solution. An external cover for external cables, mate have one and it looks neat and tidy.

Was busy with my own for my Momsen Vipa, a frakenstein from a Scalpel tub guard and carbon work, but after my fall out with Momsen scrapped my plans.