Do Non-Circular Bike Chain Rings Improve Performance?

While bicycle chain rings have traditionally been completely round, a number of companies are offering strangely shaped models that promise to improve your performance.

There are a number of different kinds of atypical chain rings, including oval and a more extreme “bi-cam” shape that has two sharper curves. The different shapes increase the power put down when the rider’s leg muscles are strongest, before quickly spinning through the weakest part of the cycle.

It may take some getting used to but a number of top cyclists, including Tour de France winner Chris Froome, have been seen using oval chain rings. Of course there have also been a number of studies which examine how far the power output is improved by the novel chain rings, with several claiming performance is increased and others noting no change.

Although the research may be inconclusive it is important to note there are no studies that note a decrease in performance when using non-round chain rings. It might all boil down to your preference but it doesn’t look as though oval chain rings will be going away any time soon.

If you’re interested in trying out the equipment for yourself, two of the most prominent brands are Absoluteblack and Osymetric. Other road testers have claimed that although there appears to be no considerable improvement in efficiency, the motion produced by oval chain rings is more comfortable on your legs once you get over the initial shock.

The equipment may be becoming more popular, but it is still only found in specialty stores. Buying online may be the best solution.