GEAR SHIFT SYSTEM
40
22 Operating elements
1
2
1
Rear shift lever
2
Front shift lever
Fig. 6:
Operating elements of the gear shift system
23 Derailleur gear
1
3
2
1
Chain
2
Chain ring (1-3)
3
Sprocket
Fig. 7:
Derailleur gear components
23.1
Method of operation
Depending on the model, a bike with a derailleur gear has 1–3 chain rings of different sizes
at the same height as the pedals and 7–12 sprockets of different sizes at the rear wheel hub.
The different combinations of chain rings and sprockets that the chain can run create the
different gears (chain “transmission”).
High transmission (stronger force/low pedalling frequency):
If the chain is running on one of the smaller sprockets, it is harder to pedal but the bike
covers a longer distance for each pedal rotation.
Low transmission (gentler force/high pedalling frequency):
If the chain is running on one of the larger sprockets, it is easier to pedal but the bike covers
a shorter distance for each pedal rotation.
Adjusting the required gear is controlled using 1 or 2 operating elements on the handlebars
depending on the configuration.
