Drivetrain Component study

Chain

A loop of linked metal plates and rollers that connects the chainring at the front to the cassette at the back.

What does the Chain do?

Transfers power from the crankset to the rear wheel.

How does it work?

The rollers sit between the teeth of the chainring and the rear sprockets. As the chainring turns it pulls the chain, which turns the rear sprocket and wheel.

Materials & Construction

Materials commonly used to make the Chain.

Steel

A strong and durable iron-based alloy. It is used for frames as well as for parts that wear quickly, such as chains, cassette sprockets and brake rotors.

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