Thanks a lot for saving my holiday. Your article rescued me. I had nice ride with temporary fix, while waiting the shops opening after Christmas and New Year holidays.
I got a plan when making the temporary fix: As the lever is vertical and spring is supposed to push it forward, possibly I could change a gear while braking!
Luckily the temporary fix didn't last but few hundred kilometers, and I was able to try the trick.
It works.
While braking by front brake, the gear changer works.
I didn't go higher that 3rd and returned to the safe 2nd gear soon. It is good to know this trick, as something can be done before the bike stops.
I write this hoping it may help somebody to resque the bike home or to a workshop.
