K2 Zed 24 hard shifting

[jpistos]

I bought a used 2000 model K2 Zed 24 (21 speed) for my kid.  The bike is in pretty good shape, I don't think it was used much.  One problem - it is hard for my 8 year old to twist the shifter in the more tension direction.  It has Shimano SIS f/r derailers and SRAM MRX twist shifters.  I have pulled the cables and lubed them, and adjusted the gears (that helped).  I also replaced the chain (and adjusted chain length for proper fit).  I can tell a difference between shifting on this bike and my bike (Alivio f/r derailer, SRAM MRXcomp twisters).  I checked the twist shifters w/o tension - works easily.  The cables seem to slide ok.  The derailers work easily when I pull on the cable.  One thing I've noticed is the sharp angle in the cable from the front derailer to the first cable housing (but that's only at the front) and I don't think that can be changed.  Any ideas?

[shovelon]

Only thing I can think of is to have the twisters regreased. I have not done it myself yet, but I can tell you it made a BIG difference in ease.

This was on a seven speed alivio with gripshifts.

Terry