Grease – Definition & Detailed Explanation – Bicycle Components Glossary

What is a Chainring?

A chainring is a toothed wheel that is attached to the crankset of a bicycle. It is responsible for transferring power from the rider’s legs to the chain, which then drives the rear wheel. Chainrings come in various sizes, with larger ones providing more resistance and smaller ones allowing for faster pedaling. They are typically made of aluminum or steel and can be replaced or upgraded to suit the rider’s preferences.

What is a Cassette?

A cassette is a cluster of gears that is attached to the rear wheel of a bicycle. It is connected to the hub of the wheel and is responsible for changing the gear ratio of the bike. Cassettes come in different configurations, with a range of gears that allow riders to adjust their pedaling resistance based on the terrain they are riding on. They are typically made of steel or aluminum and can be easily swapped out for different gearing options.

What is a Derailleur?

A derailleur is a mechanical device that is attached to the frame of a bicycle and is responsible for moving the chain between different gears on the cassette and chainring. There are two types of derailleurs – front and rear. The front derailleur controls the movement of the chain between the chainrings, while the rear derailleur shifts the chain between the gears on the cassette. Derailleurs are operated by cables that are connected to the shifters on the handlebars, allowing riders to change gears quickly and efficiently.

What is a Chain?

A chain is a series of interconnected links that is responsible for transferring power from the chainring to the cassette and ultimately to the rear wheel of a bicycle. Chains are typically made of steel and are designed to withstand the high levels of stress and tension that are placed on them during riding. They come in various widths and lengths to accommodate different gearing configurations and can be easily replaced when worn out or damaged.

What is a Crankset?

A crankset is the component of a bicycle that is responsible for converting the rider’s pedaling motion into rotational power that drives the chain. It consists of one or more chainrings, attached to a set of crank arms that are connected to the bottom bracket. Cranksets come in different configurations, with single, double, or triple chainrings, allowing riders to choose the gearing that best suits their riding style and terrain. They are typically made of aluminum or carbon fiber and can be upgraded or replaced to improve performance.

What is a Bottom Bracket?

A bottom bracket is the component of a bicycle that connects the crankset to the frame of the bike. It consists of bearings that allow the crankset to rotate smoothly and efficiently. Bottom brackets come in different types, including threaded, press-fit, and eccentric, each with its own installation and maintenance requirements. They are typically made of steel, aluminum, or ceramic and can be replaced when worn out or damaged. Bottom brackets play a crucial role in the overall performance and efficiency of a bicycle’s drivetrain.