The Bicycle Drivetrain Gear Set

What is the gear set that makes a bicycle move? The gear set is the mechanical system that transfers pedaling force to the rear wheel through the chainring, chain and rear sprockets. The system propels the bicycle through the combined operation of the front chainring, crank, chain, freewheel or cassette, derailleurs and shifters.

Key operating elements:

• Transfer of the force generated at the pedal to the chainring

• The front chainring driving the chain

• The chain turning the rear sprocket

• Changing the gear ratio according to the road gradient

• The derailleurs guiding the chain onto the appropriate sprocket

As the gear ratio decreases, pedaling becomes easier and climbing performance improves. As the ratio increases, pedaling resistance rises, but higher speeds can be achieved under the right conditions. For efficient riding, component compatibility and correct use of the gears matter more than the number of gears.