Drivetrain

The drivetrain parts of a road bike play an essential role in transferring the rider's power to the rear wheel, ensuring smooth and efficient propulsion.

This mechanical system is made up of several interdependent components: crankset, chainrings, cassette, chain as well as front and rear derailleurs. Together, they handle gear changes and adapt the pedalling to each type of terrain.

On modern racing bikes, drivetrains stand out for their high number of gears, allowing you to use the right gear ratio both on the flat and on climbs. A narrower cassette and thin sprockets promote optimal efficiency and a performance gain on the road.

Designed for speed and precision, road drivetrains differ from those of mountain bikes by their light weight and closer ratios, offering a consistent and efficient pedalling feel.

FAQ - Everything you need to know about drivetrain and braking parts

Category Question Answer
Crankset & Bottom bracket How do you tighten a bike crankset? Tightening depends on the type of crankset (Hollowtech II, square taper, DUB, etc.). Generally, you need to adjust the preload bolt then tighten the crank arm bolts to the torque recommended by the manufacturer using a torque wrench.
Crankset & Bottom bracket How do you choose your crankset? The choice depends on the discipline (road, gravel), the bottom bracket standard, the number of gears and the desired gear ratio (50/34, 52/36, etc.).
Crankset & Bottom bracket Which crankset for your road bike? Shimano 105, Ultegra and Dura-Ace cranksets are the most used on the road. The choice is made according to budget, weight and the level of performance sought.
Crankset & Bottom bracket Why does the crankset creak? Creaking often comes from a lack of grease, a poorly tightened bottom bracket, worn bearings or an incompatibility between components.
Crankset & Bottom bracket When should you change the bottom bracket? It is advisable to replace it when rotation becomes less smooth, when noises appear or after high mileage.
Crankset & Bottom bracket How do you choose your bottom bracket? You need to identify the frame standard (BB86, BSA, PF30, etc.), the axle diameter and compatibility with the crankset.
Crankset & Bottom bracket How do you grease your bottom bracket? Apply a specific bike grease to the bearing surfaces, cups and axles to avoid unwanted noises and increase bearing life.
Crankset & Bottom bracket How do you identify the size of your bottom bracket? Check the frame specifications or measure the internal diameter and the width (e.g. BB86: Ø41 mm, width 86.5 mm).
Cassette & Drivetrain How do you choose your cassette? The choice depends on the terrain and the level: 11-28 for the flat, 11-30 or 11-34 for hilly or mountainous routes.
Cassette & Drivetrain How do you clean your cassette? Use a bike degreaser and a brush, rinse, dry thoroughly then lubricate the chain before riding.
Cassette & Drivetrain Which gear ratio should you choose on your bike? The gear ratio depends on the chainring/cassette pairing, the cadence sought and the profile of the routes.
Cassette & Drivetrain What are the differences between Shimano Ultegra and Dura-Ace? Dura-Ace is lighter and competition-oriented, while Ultegra offers an excellent compromise between performance, durability and price.
Electronics & Performance How do you adjust a Shimano Di2 12-speed derailleur? Adjustment is carried out via the Di2 micro-adjustments from the shifters or via the Shimano E-Tube Project app.
Electronics & Performance Why use a power meter? It measures actual effort in watts to structure training, improve progression and better manage intensity in racing.
Chain & Maintenance How do you degrease a bike chain? Use a specific degreaser, clean with a brush or a chain cleaner, then lubricate after complete drying.
Braking When should you change your brake pads? When the pad material thickness is less than 1 mm or when braking power decreases.
Braking How do you adjust your brake pads on a road bike? For disc brakes, centre the brake caliper and adjust the position of the pads. For rim brake pads, align them correctly on the braking track.
Braking When should you change your bike's brake rotors? When the minimum thickness indicated by the manufacturer is reached or if the rotor is warped.
Braking How do you clean your bike's brake rotors? Clean only with a specific product or isopropyl alcohol, without contact with greasy surfaces.
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