The language of bicycle parts

People who talk about bikes can sometimes sound like they’re speaking a language all of their own. Some of the words they keep using are completely unfathomable and bizarre, and some sound familiar but often mean something completely different than expected. The language of bikes isn’t just a way of keeping in the clique though – it’s vital to be able to identify specific parts.

Disc brake callipers: (aka disc brake units) These are bolted to mounts on your frame and fork. Pulling the brake lever at the handlebar clamps the disc rotor between thin, metalbacked brake pads. Powerful and resilient, they can seem daunting to service thanks to the hydraulic system but they´re actually very straightforward. Mechanical versions use cables and V-brake levers rather than an oil-filled hose. Rear derailleur: This moves the chain step by step across the cassette sprockets. Differentsized sprockets give you different gear ratios, so that you can pedal at a constant rate over a range of different speeds. The movement of the rear derailleur is controlled by a cable on the shifter on the right-hand side of the handlebar. Correct adjustment gives you slick shifting and ensures maximum life…

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Bike Maintenance Tips, Tricks & Techniques (Digital) - 1 Issue, Bike Maintenance Tips, Tricks & Techniques 3rd Edition

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