The bike crankset is a fundamental component of a bicycle’s drivetrain, responsible for converting the rider’s pedaling power into rotational force that drives the chain and rear wheel. Consisting of crank arms, chainrings, and a spindle that connects to the bottom bracket, cranksets have evolved from early cottered steel designs in the late 19th century […]
Mayo Zhang
Bike drivetrain: definition, types and maintenance
A bike drivetrain is the core mechanical system that transfers power from the rider’s pedaling motion to the rear wheel, enabling forward movement and speed control. Consisting of key components such as the chain, chainrings, cassette, crankset, derailleurs, jockey wheels, and bottom bracket, the drivetrain plays a critical role in efficiency, gear-shifting performance, and overall […]
Flat vs Clipless pedals: Definition, Pros & Cons and How to choose
Flat and clipless bike pedals are two fundamentally different pedal systems that cyclists compare when deciding between control, efficiency, and riding style preferences across various disciplines such as mountain biking, road cycling, commuting, and touring. Flat pedals provide a platform-based design with no cleat attachment, allowing for quick foot adjustments, easy dismounts, and better maneuverability, […]
Shimano SPD vs Shimano SPD SL pedals: definition, similarities and differences, pros and cons, compatibilities
Shimano SPD versus Shimano SPD-SL pedals are two of the most widely used clipless pedal systems, often compared by road cyclists, mountain bikers, commuters, and gravel riders who seek the best balance between power transfer, comfort, and versatility. Shimano SPD (Shimano Pedaling Dynamics) is a two-bolt cleat system, primarily designed for mountain biking, gravel, cyclocross, […]
Bike pedals: definition, materials, types, how to choose and use
Bike pedals are one of the most essential contact points between the rider and the bicycle, directly influencing power transfer, efficiency, and control. Evolving from simple flat platforms in the late 19th century to modern clipless systems, pedals come in various types such as flat, clipless, and hybrid, designed for different riding disciplines like road […]
Bike headset: definition, types, materials, dimensions and how to choose
The bike headset, the critical component connecting the bicycle frame and fork, plays a vital role in steering performance, ride quality, and overall bike durability. As a central interface between the head tube and steerer tube, it comes in various types (threaded, threadless, EC, ZS, IS), materials (aluminum, steel, carbon), and standards like the widely […]
Bike saddle: definition, types, materials, dimensions and how to choose
Bike saddles are essential components of a bicycle, providing support and comfort for the rider during cycling. Originating in the early days of bicycles, saddles have evolved to accommodate various riding styles and user preferences, making them a crucial aspect of bike performance and rider comfort. The most common saddle types, such as road, mountain, […]
Bike Seatpost: definition, types, materials, dimensions and how to choose
A bike seatpost is a crucial bicycle component that connects the saddle to the frame, allowing for height adjustments to suit the rider’s fit and comfort. Originating as a simple cylindrical piece of metal, the seatpost has evolved in design, materials, and function to accommodate different types of cycling and improve overall ride quality. Today, […]
Bike stem: definition, types, materials, dimensions, and how to choose
A bike stem is a key component of a bicycle that connects the handlebars to the steerer tube of the fork, playing a crucial role in controlling the bike’s steering and riding position. Stems have evolved from simple steel designs to lightweight, high-performance materials like aluminum and carbon fiber, offering different types, lengths, and angles […]
Bike handlebars: definition, types, materials, dimensions, and how to choose
Bike handlebars are the control center of a bicycle, allowing the rider to steer, balance, and control the bike effectively. They have evolved from simple straight bars to a wide variety of styles, shapes, and materials to suit different types of cycling, such as road, mountain, gravel, and touring. Handlebars play a crucial role in […]