bicycle chain

Loop driving wheels

A bicycle chain is the loop of linked metal segments that transfers power from the pedals to the rear wheel.

The chain engages with toothed sprockets, converting leg motion into forward movement.

Chains require periodic lubrication and eventually stretch with use: The bicycle chain keeps slipping off the gears.

Related

gear · fixed gear · oil · rust · tension · cassette · teeth · metal · lube · snap · quick release · slack · drivetrain · roller · pin · squeaky · loop · road bike

Opposites
drive mechanism type

bicycle chainbelt drive

Power transfer via loop

direct drive · derailleur

mobility/constraint

bicycle chainchain lock

Linked metal door restraint

U-lock · cable lock

Family

bicycle, chain, cycle, cycles, cycling, cycled, cyclist, cyclists, bicycles

Familiarity
Top 100,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G