Operation Manual

32
• No switching device (single speed)
4.4.1 Derailleur
A derailleur provides you with the optimum gear for every speed and makes it easier to climb hills, for exam-
ple.
When the gear is changed, the chain is moved to a different cog. On the crankset these cogs are referred to
as “chainrings”, and on the geared ring as “sprockets”.
The gear can only be changed while the bike is moving. The crankset must turn in the direction
of the drive.
The gear change on the left handlebar operates the front derailleur on the crankset. Switching to a larger
chainring results in a higher gear ratio (= higher gear). The resistance to pedalling becomes higher, but you
can reach a greater speed.
The gear change on the right handlebar activates the rear derailleur. Here switching to a larger sprocket
results in a lower gear ratio (= lower gear). The pedalling resistance becomes lower, you can reach a lower
speed, but it is easier to climb hills.
The number of gears is determined as follows: Number of chainrings at the front multiplied by the number of
geared rings at the back, e.g. 2 chainrings x 10 geared rings = 20 gears.
4.4.2 Hub gear
In the case of hub gears the gearing is located in the rear wheel hub. When the gear change is operated,
various cogs mesh with one another and thereby change the gear ratio.
For bikes with a hub gear we use the Shimano Alfi ne 8 and 11-speed gear hub with freewheel, i.e. without a
backpedal brake.
4.4.3 Gear change
The following gear changes are mounted on our bikes: