Bicycle drivetrain

A bicycle drivetrain transfers force from the rider’s pedals to the driven wheel. Its components determine how pedaling effort becomes wheel rotation and speed.

Crankset: The assembly of one or more chainrings, crank arms, and the spindle that connects bicycle pedals to the frame. The rider applies force here, turning the chainrings that drive the transmission.
Torque: A measure of the turning effect produced by a force around an axis. Pedaling torque is the input the drivetrain transmits and modifies.
Belt drive: A bicycle transmission that uses a toothed belt instead of a chain to transfer power. It replaces the chain with a cleaner, low-maintenance flexible transmission.
Road bicycle: A bicycle designed primarily for paved roads, typically with drop handlebars and relatively narrow tires. Road drivetrains balance high-speed gearing with efficient cadence changes on pavement.
Bicycle chain wear: The gradual increase in effective chain length caused by wear at its pins and bushings. A worn chain can accelerate wear on the drivetrain’s sprockets.
Bicycle chain: A linked metal chain that transmits rotational force between sprockets on a bicycle. It carries motion from the front chainring to the rear sprocket.
Rotational speed: The rate at which an object rotates around an axis, commonly measured in revolutions per minute. Crank and wheel rotational speeds are linked by the selected gear ratio.
Shaft drive: A bicycle transmission that uses rotating shafts and gears instead of a chain or belt. It encloses the transmission but generally adds weight and mechanical complexity.
Mountain bike: A bicycle designed for off-road riding, with features suited to uneven terrain. Mountain-bike drivetrains prioritize low climbing gears and resistance to chain loss.
Bicycle chainline: The alignment of a bicycle chain relative to the chainrings and rear sprockets. Poor alignment increases friction and can contribute to noise and accelerated wear.

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