Chris Bell   -   Cycle Technical Notes   -   Introduction

These notes were originally written in 2000 to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the products I supplied. They attempt to correct a few myths and explain other points about cycle transmissions which are not readily available elsewhere. I've tried to remain impartial and categorically deny any commercial or spiteful incentive where I question someone else's products. All recommendations are simply made as a result of my own experience as a cyclist and engineer, and from feedback received from my customers over the years.

I hope you find this information useful. Please let me know if you spot any errors, omissions or something with which you disagree.

Modern gears and chains
Choosing your gears
 
Freehubs and cassettes
Rear derailleurs and indexing
Front derailleurs
Shimano gears
Bottom brackets
 
Cranks and chainsets
Oval chainrings - general
Oval chainrings - technical
Oval chainrings - history