Leisure Cycling : Terminology

In the section for new and leisure cyclists there is a list of the most frequently used terms in cycling, specifically for the new cyclist. SMARTways logo

Do people appear to speak a different language when they talk to you about bikes and cycling? Here is a brief explanation of bike bits and terminology so that you can join in.

Bike with numbers

1. Gear Shifters / brake levers 7. Down tube 13. Chain stay
2. Handlebar stem 8. Front forks 14. Seat stay
3. Headset 9. Front hub 15. Front derailleur
4. Top tube 10. Chainset / chainrings 16. Wheel rim
5. Seat post 11. Rear derailleur 17. Spokes
6. Seat tube 12. Rear block 18. Pannier rack

Additional information

  • Behind the chainset, connecting the cranks, is the bottom bracket.
  • The rear block is sometimes referred to as the rear cassette.
  • The"black wires" leading from the handlebars are the cable outers, inside of which are housed either your brake or gear cables.

Information & picture with kind permission from 'e-cobr'

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