Bike bottom bracket

Bike bottom bracket: definition, types, how to choose and adjust

The bike bottom bracket is a critical but often overlooked part of every bicycle — it’s the bearing system that connects the crank arms to the bike frame and allows human power to transfer smoothly into pedal rotation. Over time, the bottom bracket has evolved from simple, threaded designs in the early days of cycling […]

Bike shifters

Bike shifters: definition, types, how to choose and adjust

Bike shifters are the essential control mechanisms that allow cyclists to change gears by actuating the derailleurs, enabling smoother pedaling and better adaptation to terrain and speed. Invented in the early 20th century in Europe, early shifters were mounted on the downtube and operated with friction, evolving into modern indexed bar-end, trigger, twist, STI, and […]

Bike derailleur hanger

Bike derailleur hanger: definition, types, how to choose and adjust

Bike derailleur hanger is a small but critical component that connects the rear derailleur to the bike frame, introduced in the late 20th century as a replaceable safeguard against drivetrain damage. Originally integrated into steel frames, it became a separate aluminum or alloy piece as frame materials evolved to aluminum and carbon fiber, allowing it […]

Bike rear derailleur guide

Bike rear derailleur: definition, types, how to choose and adjust

The bike rear derailleur is a critical component in the evolution of modern geared bicycles, first gaining prominence in the early 20th century with innovations from brands like Campagnolo in Italy, who revolutionized gear shifting with the introduction of the Gran Sport in 1949. Originally developed to allow cyclists to change gears without dismounting, the […]

Bike front derailleur

Bike front derailleur: definition, types, how to choose and adjust

A bike front derailleur is a bicycle component designed to shift the chain smoothly between multiple front chainrings, playing a critical role in managing gear ratios and optimizing cycling efficiency across various terrains. Understanding its types, correct selection, and adjustment techniques ensures optimal cycling performance, reduces mechanical issues, and enhances the overall riding experience. Mastering […]

Bike derailleur

Bike derailleur: definition, types, how to choose and adjust

Bike derailleur is a key component of a bicycle’s drivetrain, responsible for moving the chain between gears to optimize cadence, power efficiency, and terrain adaptability. The rear derailleur, which shifts the chain across the cassette, and the front derailleur, which moves it between chainrings, work together to provide a smooth gear transition. First developed in […]

Road vs mtb cassette

Road vs MTB cassette: what are the differences?

Road versus MTB cassettes are often compared because they serve distinct cycling disciplines but sometimes share similar designs, leading riders to question their compatibility, gear range, and performance impact. As drivetrain technology has evolved, especially with the rise of gravel bikes and adventure cycling, more cyclists are exploring whether wide-range MTB cassettes can improve climbing […]

Bike cassette

Bike cassette: definition, types, compatibility and how to choose

A bike cassette is the cluster of gears (sprockets) mounted on the rear wheel hub, allowing cyclists to adjust their pedaling effort by shifting the chain across different-sized cogs, a system that revolutionized modern gearing when introduced in the late 1970s by brands like Shimano and Campagnolo in Japan and Italy. Replacing older freewheel systems, […]

Bike chain quick link

Bike chain quick link: definition, types and how to choose

A bike chain quick link, also known as a master link, is a specialized removable link that allows cyclists to easily connect and disconnect a bike chain without using traditional chain pins or advanced tools. First popularized in the 1990s by brands like KMC and Connex in Taiwan and Germany, quick links emerged to simplify […]

Bike chain

Bike chain: definition, types, sizes and how to choose

The bike chain is a critical component in a bicycle’s drivetrain, responsible for transferring power from the rider’s pedals to the rear wheel, enabling forward motion. Invented in the late 19th century, the modern roller chain was popularized by Hans Renold in 1880 in the UK, revolutionizing cycling by introducing a more efficient and durable […]